Marikina City Fire Victims Supported by Church's Emergency Relief Efforts

In response to three fire incidents caused by heatwaves around the country, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints quickly dispatched emergency assistance to victims and survivors in Marikina City.

The Church's Emergency Response services provided relief goods, water, and personal hygiene kits to over 50 families displaced from their homes and in need of assistance.

Although the local government had earlier provided aid, local Church leaders felt the need to extend more help through their humanitarian service projects. Led by Stake President Ofrecio Corpuz, the Marikina Philippines Stake organized dozens of members who volunteered to repack the relief assistance items for the fire victims.

In addition to food, water, and personal hygiene items, the victims and survivors were also given bedding, eating utensils, and other cooking items.

Volunteers from the stake offered their time and support in packing and sorting donations at the Parang chapel and during the distribution of goods on April 9, 2024, at the covered court of Doña Petra, Tumana, Marikina, and on April 20, 2024, at E. Nasol Compound in Parang, Marikina City.

The recipients who gathered at the relief items' distribution expressed their gratitude and thanked the Church for the additional assistance they had received. Although many had lost homes and other property due to the fires, a sense of hope filled the distribution venue.

In a short message, President Corpuz emphasized to the recipients that they are loved by God and that He is with them during their struggles. He counseled that all of us need to place our trust in Heavenly Father and always have hope, even in the midst of the most challenging circumstances.

How does the Church respond in an emergency?

The Church provides relief in situations of civil unrest, famine, and natural disasters by providing short-term resources such as food, water, shelter, clothing, medical supplies, and hygiene kits.

When tragedy strikes, ward and stake leaders begin carrying out their emergency plan by gathering at a previously determined location where they can direct relief efforts.

Response efforts are coordinated with civil authorities and community relief organizations.

New Area Organization Advisers Called to Help Women Leaders in PH