Over 18k Batangas residents affected by Taal Volcano ashfall receive aid from GMA Kapuso Foundation

Over 18,000 residents in Agoncillo and Laurel, Batangas affected by ashfall caused by Taal Volcano’s recent minor eruptions received help from GMA Kapuso Foundation.

According to “24 Oras,” Friday, residents were alarmed after Taal Volcano emitted sulfur and ash.

Mary Joy Robredillo, a resident, shared her concern for her children’s health as the air in their area reeked of sulfur.

“Mabaho. Iba po ‘yung amoy ng sulfur. Tapos po ‘yung mga anak po namin, nag-uubuhan na. Masasakit po ‘yung lalamunan sa amoy. Sana po talaga kumalma na ang bulkan,” she said.

The municipal government advised residents to seek help from the local office.

“Kami po ay 24/7 bukas po ang tanggapan. Gano’n din po ang RHU. Once na lumapit po kayo, mabilisan naman po kayong tutugunan,” said Junfrance Almero De Villa of Agoncilo MDRRMO.

To help protect residents from the harmful effects of sulfur and ash, GMA Kapuso Foundation distributed N95 face masks, vitamins, and medicines for children to affected barangays in Agoncillo and four barangays in Laurel under its Operation Bayanihan program.

“‘Yun po ay malaking tulong na sa mga anak namin gawa po tulad nito. Nagkakaroon po ng sakit ang mga bata dahil po sa sulfur,” Mary Joy said.

In total, 18,040 individuals received face masks from GMA Kapuso Foundation.

“Taos puso pong pasasalamat sa inyo pong mga tulong sa amin. Kahit minor eruption pa lang po ay ramdam na rin po namin ang inyo pong pagtulong,” De Villa said.

For those who wish to support GMA Kapuso Foundation’s projects, donations may be made via Metrobank, Land Bank, BDO, Bank of Commerce, UnionBank, PNB, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Lazada, and Shopee. Visit GMA Kapuso Foundation’s website for more information.

—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News