Village Connect
In the wake of the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that rattled Cebu and nearby provinces on September 30, 2025, DigiPlus Interactive Corp., through its social development arm, the BingoPlus Foundation, wasted no time in extending help to affected families. On October 5, 2025, the Foundation deployed 1,000 family relief packs to residents of Daanbantayan and Medellin, two of the hardest-hit towns in northern Cebu.
The relief operation was powered by the collective effort of employee volunteers from BingoPlus branches across Cebu, who worked alongside local government units and community leaders to ensure that aid reached those most in need.
Swift Response, Shared Purpose
“Cebu has always been close to our hearts,” shared Paul Henczen Tamayo, Program Manager for Resilience and Healthcare at BingoPlus Foundation. “Through our BayanihanPlus initiative, we make sure that help gets where it’s needed most—quickly, efficiently, and with compassion. These are communities that needed swift, reliable support, and we were determined to deliver.”
Each relief pack was designed to sustain a family of five, containing 10 liters of potable water in reusable containers, 5 kilograms of rice, a hygiene kit, and essential medicines. The distribution covered over 5,000 individuals, providing immediate assistance as families coped with damaged homes, disrupted livelihoods, and ongoing aftershocks.
Volunteers on the Frontlines
The road to relief was not easy. Tremors, congested routes, and logistical challenges made the mission demanding—but not impossible. From the DigiPlus warehouse in Parañaque to the final handover points in northern Cebu, the entire deployment reflected the organization’s deep commitment to solidarity and service.
Don Adviento, Regional Manager for Visayas and Mindanao, commended the teamwork behind the effort: “After the Foundation’s quick dispatch from Parañaque, our Cebu-based employees—from Cebu City, Mandaue, and Talisay—stepped up to oversee ground operations. Their dedication truly embodies the Bayanihan spirit.”
Originally, the team planned to bring aid to Bogo and San Remigio, but on-ground assessments revealed a greater need farther north. “We received reports that Medellin and Daanbantayan had yet to receive sufficient assistance,” explained Dan Kemuel Mabano, Area Manager for Cebu. “So we redirected our relief goods there immediately.”
Compassion in Action
For Judaline Geraldez, Branch Manager of BingoPlus Park Mall and team lead for the employee volunteers, the experience was both humbling and rewarding. “It was a challenge transporting stocks and navigating through congestion and aftershocks,” she said. “But being able to bring help directly to our fellow Cebuanos made every effort worthwhile. Daghang salamat (many thanks) to everyone—from our head office to our branch teams and LGU partners—who made this possible.”
Sustaining Support for Recovery
Beyond this initial deployment, the BingoPlus Foundation continues to monitor the evolving needs of affected communities in close coordination with local government units and partner agencies. The Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to provide immediate relief and long-term recovery support, ensuring that no community is left behind in times of crisis.
For coordination, assistance, or partnership opportunities, visit the BingoPlus Foundation official Facebook page at facebook.com/BingoPlusFoundation.
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