GMA Kapuso Foundation continues aid for quake-hit residents in Caraga, Davao Oriental amid new tremor

The GMA Kapuso Foundation continued its relief efforts for quake-hit residents in Caraga, Davao Oriental amid a new tremor. 

According to Mel Tiangco’s report on “24 Oras” on Monday, teachers and students of an elementary school in Caraga remain fearful months after a magnitude 7.4 earthquake hit the area last October. 

“‘Yung kinder ko, nag-iiiyak na sila, pumunta sa akin, yumakap sa akin. Pagdating namin dito sa labas, 'yung mga bata ko walang tsinelas, walang bag,” Edilgrace Sumalinab, a teacher in Maglahos Elementary School said.

The powerful earthquake last year destroyed the school's classrooms, forcing students to temporarily hold classes on the stage of a small covered court.

To bring joy and hope to the children, the GMA Kapuso Foundation conducted a gift-giving activity in Caraga on January 7 under its “Give-A-Gift, Alay sa Batang Pinoy” Christmas project. 

However, during the distribution, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the area anew. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as teachers and parents immediately assisted and comforted the children. 

"'Yung [Department of Education] po, nagbigay ng mga psychosocial [support] sa mga bata, sa mga guro, kung paano i-handle ang mga gantong sitwasyon,” said Arther Dick Pagulong, District Coordinating Principal, Caraga South District, Davao Oriental.

The students' smiles returned after receiving gifts from the foundation, which included toys and food.

“GMA Kapuso Foundation, maraming salamat dahil nakita namin kung gaano sila kasaya,” Pagulong added.

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 the GMA Kapuso Foundation website for more information.

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA Integrated News