Japanese philanthropist promises more aid

CEBU, Philippines - A Japanese philanthropist has assured more donations of relief goods and school supplies to poor families and students in the island barangays of Lapu-Lapu City.

Last year, more than 500 families in barangay Tungasan in Olango Island and Pangan-an islet in Lapu-Lapu City received relief goods and other donations from Japanese philanthropist Takayuki Murata.

Murata, founder and coordinator in Japan of JYPKO Foundation, Inc. told The FREEMAN that he facilitated the donation for several years now in Lapu-Lapu City.

He wants to continue giving relief goods to poor families in Lapu-Lapu City.

He had visited the barangays in Lapu-Lapu City and the islet barangays and talked to barangay officials and residents.

Murata said the relief goods were given by friends in Japan and brought here for poor residents in the city.

Murata said he is happy when he sees people happy.

Lapu-Lapu City Councilor Quennie Malingin-Amman, on the other hand, lauded Murata and JYPKO Foundation, Inc. for the donations.

During the administration of Mayor Ernest Weigel, Murata and city officials of Lapu-Lapu formed Friends of Lapu-Lapu City Foundation.

The foundation donates relief goods and gives scholarships to students who cannot afford to pursue a college education.

Some graduates now work in different companies in Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, and Cebu cities.  (FREEMAN)