Fund drive generates P230T for medicines

CEBU, Philippines - As The FREEMAN and Banat News continue to receive donations for victims of typhoon Sendong in Mindanao, The FREEMAN Chairman Dr. Jose R. Gullas yesterday announced that the amount they have gathered reached P230,000.

Gullas, who is also the executive vice president of the University of the Visayas, said the amount will be used to purchase medicines, one of the immediate needs of the people in the cities of Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan.

The FREEMAN and Banat News also packed 155 sacks of rice, sardines, bottled water and clothing donated by the various individuals and groups. The fund raising campaign will continue until January 12, 2012.

“On behalf of my wife, Nena and my children, The FREEMAN and Banat News, I would like to extend our thanks to the very kind-hearted Cebuanos who heeded our call and donated cash or various goods,” Gullas said.

Sendong swept through southern Philippines and has greatly affected lives and damaged properties especially in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Cities.

Gullas already tasked The FREEMAN Foundation Administrator Dr. Remedios Bacasmas and Atty. Joseph Baduel, the University of the Visayas vice president for external affairs, to coordinate with the local governments of Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan.

On Monday, Bacasmas will proceed to Cagayan de Oro and Iligan to deliver the medicines and antibiotics like doxycycline for those who were affected with leptospirosis. She would also bring anti-tetanus injections, among others. According to Gullas, he initiated the fund drive after learning last December 18 that thousands of families lost their properties and lives because of the typhoon.

“We Cebuanos must be very grateful that we have the Sto. Niño to protect us in so many ways. A mother and daughter narrated that as the rampaging waters descended at the height of the typhoon a child suddenly appeared, directed and guided them to a safer area,” Gullas said.

Gullas remembered the words of wisdom inculcated in him by his father Inting and mother Pining: “It is nobler to give than to receive.”

Donations are received at The FREEMAN/Banat News advertising offices at the Philippine Star Group Building, D. Jakosalem corner V. Gullas Streets, Cebu City.

All donations and donors will be issued receipts and acknowledged in The FREEMAN and Banat News from January 13 to 15. (FREEMAN)