2009-09 Typhoon Ketsana (Luzon, Philippines)
Ketsana 10 – CTF Philippines and the Dumagats
Ketsana 9 – The Rehabilitation Continues
KETSANA PROJECT AND NEW BEGINNINGS – Philippines
By Fr. Aris Miranda, MI
I arrived in Manila from Rome last July 9 (Friday) for my vacation. The following Sunday I went to Boso-Boso to concelebrate the Holy Mass at 9:00 in the morning. The church was jam-packed with people and well participated. Needless to say, that I missed so much this type of congregation. I saw with my naked eyes and experienced with my flesh and bones, how this community rejuvenated from the very beginning in the early nineties (‘90s).
After the mass, I was invited by an old-time friend and faithful community organizer Mr. Paul Santis to join an assembly of the different tribes of the “Dumagat”, one of the few remaining ethnic groups in the Philippines. This assembly happened to be a meeting of the various chieftains of the tribes, who are the direct beneficiaries of the Camillian Task Force’s (CTF) typhoon Ketsana relief and rehabilitation project through the initiative of CTF-Philippines under the care of Fr. Domingo Barawid, MI, the parish pastor.
The assembly was discussing already the next phase of the project which is the rehabilitation of their livelihood. The project is set to develop an agro-forestry and livestock demo farm program. This project is under the direct supervision of Kalingap Marikina Watershed Development Plan. They are now preparing a project proposal for a comprehensive trainer’s training program intended for the representatives of each tribe. This group will serve as the future trainer and implementor of the project. The rationale of the program is to build their capacities and augment their capabilities in order to move forward after the devastation that typhoon Ketsana brought about to their communities and to help prevent against future calamities. They believed that protecting the nature’s gift of God and developing it sustainably will be a way to further their growth towards full human development.
Through the CTF-Philippines, the devastation brought about by Ketsana, which is not only physical but also moral, the Dumagats found a new hope and a fresh start in their lives that strengthen and help them to discover more their inner strength and innate wisdom. Their communal life and sharing of their skills and capacities are all the more resuscitated. They are nature-loving people and engaged in a nomadic and backward farming endeavor at a less subsistent level. They envisioned becoming a model for others in the field of organic farming and as vanguards of nature.
With this initiative, they are hoping for more financial and moral support for this new venture in their lives. CTF-Philippines is showing more support and assistance to them towards their full empowerment and development.
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 2 so far )Ketsana 9 – The Rehabilitation Work Continues
Here is a bit of news from Fr. Sam Cuarto, MI -a member of CTF Philippines. He is responsble for the Marikina Project that is supported by CTF Central and SOS DRS. Fr. Sam is also implementing much of the CTF rehabiliatation project supported by the Italian Episcopal Conference. Both of these CTF projects began in the wake of the September 2009 typhoon that struck Manila. Fr. Sam writes:
“Dear Fr. Scott, our rehabilitation activities are still ongoing. We had to slow down for more than one week as the Philippines held its election of national and local officials. Philippine elections are a big thing here. Five houses are part of our ongoing rehabilitation project in Laguna courtesy of the funds sourced by Fr. Aris in Canada. We are procuring school supplies for school children of affected families in Barangay Nangka who until now could not recover financially from the flood. We have to remember most of the belongings of these affected families were washed out and it is like they have to build from scratch. We are using the CEI funds for this. This is still part of relief and soft rehabilitation work. Pray we are doing fine with our ongoing activities. Salud!”
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Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Ketsana 7 – CTF Filipiny
Wysłane Grudzien 24, 2009
Służba CTF Filipiny idzie naprzód w ślad za Tajfunem Ketsana który zniszczył Miasto Manila w końcu Września 2009. Ostatnio, Kamilianie i ich współpracownicy dostarczali pomoc żywnościową i inną oraz pośrednietwo. Dzielnica Filipiny oraz Kamilianie utrzymują 2 szpitale (Calbayog i Matte) oraz szereg klinik. Również utrzymują bliską współpracę z wieloma organizacjami w dziedzinie zdrowia.
Listopad 22, CTF Filipiny usługiwały w sitio San Josep , Baso Baso, dając pomoc medyczną 1543 pacjentom i pomoc dentystyczną, 163. Dwadzieścia-osiem osób zostałoz skierowanych do polyklinik lub szpilali, 79 pracowników medycznych i ochotników było obecnych w tej misji. Niektóre dzieci opartrzone będę skierowane do dalszej pomocy w Poliklinice Sw. Kamil, Cogeo. Koszła medyczne tych dzieci będą pokrtyte przez CTF Filipiny.
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- 1. Grudzien 13-Odprawiając Mszę
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- 2. Grudzien 13-Reackcja CTF
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- 3. Listopad 22 Misja Medyczna 1
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- 4. Otwóż Szeroko!
Grudzien 13 i 14, CTF Filipiny przeprowadzały program medyczny w Centrum Zdrowia Sw. Kamiliana w Sto. Domingo, Cainta. Zespół 47 pracowników medycznych i ochotników zoopieował się 1,146 medycznymi i 210 denstysticznymi pacjentami. Dwadzieścia-jeden operacji zostało wykonanych i 45 pacjentów zostało skierowanich do polyklinik lub szpitali.
Serdeczne dzięki dla Ks. Meng Barawid za informacje w tym artykule i za pracę którą on i jego
CTF wspólpracownicy prowadzą śladami Tajfunu Ketsana.
Ketsana 7 – CTF Philippines
The mission of CTF Philippines continues in the wake of Typhoon Ketsana that devastated Metropolitan Manila at the end of September 2009. Most recently the Camillians and their collaborators have been supplementing their food-and-nonfood- distribution relief efforts with medial assistance. The Philippine Province of the Camillians operates 2 hospitals (Calbayog and Matte) and several medical clinics. And they work in close collaboration with many in the healthcare field.
On November 22, CTF Philippines served in Sitio San Josep, Boso-Boso providing medical care to 1,543 patients and dental care to another 163. Twenty-eight people were referred to a polyclinic or hospital. In total, 79 medical staff and volunteers were present for the mission. Some of the children attended to will need follow-up at St. Camillus Polyclinic Cogeo. The medical expenses of these children will be covered by CTF Philippines.
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- Nov 22 Medical Mission 1
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- November 22 Medical Mission – Open Wide!
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- Dec 13 Medical Mission – The CTF Responds
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- Dec 13 Medical Mission – Celebrating Mass
On December 13-Dec 14, CTF Philippines carried out a medical mission at St. Camillus Healthcare Center, Sto. Domingo, Cainta. The team of 47 medical staff and volunteers attended to 1,146 medical and 210 dental patients. Twenty-one surgeries were performed, and 45 patients were referred to a polyclinic or hospital.
Many thanks to Fr. Meng Barawid for the information in this article and for the work that he and his CTF confreres are doing in the wake of Typhoon Ketsana.
CTF Philippines has been active in responding to Typhoon Ketsana since it struck at the end of September. Together with CTF Central, SOS DRS, the Italian Episcopal Conference and Salute e Sviluppo, the Camillians in the Philippines are carrying out projects in Marikina, and in Cainta and Boso-Boso.
While the disaster has disappeared from the news, its effects have not. Let us continue to pray for the victims, their families and those that are helping them.
Fr. Scott
To financially support the CTF relief effort in the Philippines, click here
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Fr. Scott meets with the Board of the Philippine Cultural and Civic Center Foundation (Milwaukee)
Fr. Scott Binet, MD, MI
Many thanks to the board of the Philippine Cultural and Civic Center Foundation (PCCCF) in Milwaukee, WI for inviting me to speak to them and for their generosity in supporting the relief efforts of CTF-SOS DRS in the Philippines after Typhoon Ketsana.
Last night, December 9, I spoke to the board about the work of the CTF in general and the Marikina disaster relief project in particular. SOS DRS together with CTF Central is sponsoring this project through the generosity of the PCCCF and several other groups from the Filippino community in Wisconsin. Many thanks to all of you including USTAAW, FAAWIS, PMAW, UP.
Also present at the meeting were the coordinators of the upcoming RMMF medical mission to the Philippines. We had a chance to discuss the possibility of a combined CTF-RMMF medical mission in the disaster-affected area where people are still suffering. Stay tuned for details and photos.
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )RMMF Mission in the Philippines
Anticipated Rizal-MaCarthur Memorial Foundation Medical Mission (2010)
In a recent correspondence, Dr. Jazmin Parcon-Sandoval, an obstetrician/gynecologist and the co-coordinator of the RMMF medical mission writes:
After Typhoon Ondoy [Ketsana] devastated Manila and neighboring areas, Filipino-Americans in Milwaukee responded overwhelmingly with donations of cash and goods. The Filipino American Association of Wisconsin (FAAWIS) sent 22 boxes filled with canned goods, blankets, clothes, etc. to Manila while the leaders of many organizations decided to channel the cash donation through SOS DRS to benefit the affected families in Marikina, one of the hardest-hit suburbs.
The volunteers of the 2010 medical mission, sponsored by the Rizal-MacArthur Memorial Foundation (RMMF) and the Philippine Medical Association of Wisconsin (PMAW), hope to see first-hand the rehabilitation efforts done in Marikina. This type of follow-up was done in Guimaras Province when Milwaukee, in 2006, responded to the call of the fishermen and their families affected by the oil spill on their shores. A Medical Team visited Guimaras after relief donations were sent and conducted a Medical Mission on the island of Panobolon and two other venues. The island province was also the site of a surgical/medical mission in 2000.
As of 12/10/09 here is the anticipated itinerary of the 2010 RMMF medical/surgical mission:
Saturday, January 16, 2010- Leave Milwaukee for Manila
Sunday, January 17, 2010 [early morning Monday] - Arrive Manila. Lodging at Traders [Roxas Blvd] or in Marikina if possible.
Monday, January 18, 2010- Visit to Marikina – possible joint medical mission [consultations and free meds].
Tuesday, January 19, 2010- Medical Team to Pangasinan. Surgical Team to Kalibo, Aklan [Ibajay District Hospital.
Wednesday-Friday, January 20-22, 2010 – Medical Mission in Urbiztondo, Lubas, Labrador, Pangasinan
Surgical Mission in Ibajay District Hospital Saturday-Sunday, January 23 & 24- Post-op surgical Rounds. All are invited to attend the Town Fiesta and Ati-atihan Parade. A religious/cultural event celebrating the arrival of the Senor Santo Nino on the island.
Monday, January 25, 2010- Medical Mission All Day in Ibajay.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010- R&R in Boracay Wednesday, January 27, 2010- Return to Manila.
Thursday, January 28, 2010- Manila
Friday, January 29, 2010- Manila
Saturday, January 30-2010- Return to U.S.
Let us keep the RMMF team in our prayers as they travel to the Philippines and provide medical and surgical care for many Filippinos.
Fr. Scott
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 1 so far )Tajfun Ketsana 4C (Filipiny)
Ks. Sam daje nam “widok z lotu ptaka” na katastrofę.
Jest to sprawozdanie z miejca wydarzeń i obraz dokładnej pracy wykonywanej przez CTF Filipiny.
The Philippines
Drogie Ks. Łukaszu i współbracia,
Bardzo diękuje za waszą odpowiedź przerz e-mail. My właśnie przybyliśmy tu z naszej akcji wspomagającej. Jutro jest nowym dniem. Mamy jeszcze dosyć produktów do rozdziału aż do Niedzieli. Dziękujemy stowarzyszęniu scholastycznemu (Ks. Evan i Ks. Dan) za dobrze wykopaną prace w zapoczątkowaniu dóbr wspierajacych. Cześć dla nich!
Dziękujemy także za calą waszą pomoc szybką orientację i silne przewodnictwo które okazujecie nam w wykonaniu zadań. Prace ratunkowe muszą być szybkie, bystre I odpowiednie. Dzielę ostrożność Ks. Scotta zarówno dla nas aby przestrzegać minimalne wymaganie wzasadnienia źródeł i użycia funduszów. Wzór który nam przysłał jest dobrym początkiem; możemy ograniczyć tekst do jednej lub dwóch stron. To co staje się bardzo ważne dla wszystkich jest zdolność uzasadnienia wydatków w sposób przejrzysty I odpowiedzialny. Myslę że nasza moc spoczywa w tej dziedzinie. My nie ustajemy tutaj. Baczymy do tego żeby logistika, dostawy i produkty wspierające doszły do przeznaczonych podopiecznych. Jest bardzo ważne przeprowadzić śilne rozpoznanie i oznaczenie rodzin powarznie dotkniętych przez katastrophy. Nasze pierwsze dwa dni rozdziału pomocy były przydziałem dóbr na oślep. Obecnie ustanowiliśmy “skoncentrowane celowanie” aby zwiększyć nacisk i sprawiedliwość. Lista Rozdziału potężnieje używając przewodniczących środowisk jako informatów zbierających dane co do wielkości zniszczeń domostw i wyróżnienia rodzin które potrzebują nagłej pomocy. Lista Rozdziału jest przezroczystym sposobem także do zdania relacji do naszych sponsorów i fundatorów których donacje otrzymujemy. Jesteśmy w ciągłym procesie uczenia się wtej branży. Gdy odpowiadamy coraz więcej na katakliżmy jesteśmy w stanie działać i tworzyć użyteczne metody oparte na solidnym doświadczeniu na tym polu, i skutkujacych, systemacznych odpowiedziach takich jakie obecnie dajemy.
Rozmawialam z Ks. Aris przez “Posłaniec Yahoo” z ostatniego wieczoru. On jest w Toronto zagłębiony w zbiókę funduszów dla CTF I dla Zakonu. Cześć dla niego także! Niech cię Bóg błogosławi, Ks. Aris!
Raz jeszcze dzięki Ks. Lukaszu i niech Bóg błogosławi. Naprzód Kamilianie!
Ks. Sam A. Cuarto MI
Camillus MedHaven
29 Apitong St., Marikina Heights
1800 Marikina City, Philippines
Tel. No. 63 2 9484456; 09186434247
Propozycja Ks. Sama o specialną pomoc dla “Marikina-Wsparcie odbudowy” jest w stanie początkowym, jak nastęmpuje: Pomoc dla 60 rodzin członków Kamil Medhaven środowiska programu odbudowy dla upośledzonych dzieci ubagich miejskich rodzin w mieście Marikina.
Dla naszych czytelników, Ks. Sam ofiaruje interesującą i głęboką analisę zarządu katastrofy.
“Kierownictwo odbudowy kataklizmu na trzy ważne fazy: 1) Ocalenie i odzyskanie 2) Pomoc – wsparcie. 3) Odbudowa. Czerwony Krzyż i wojsko, i naturalnie rządowe agencje, przeważnie są najlepiej wyposażone do przeprowadzania akcji ratunkowych i ocaleniowych. Oni także mają systemy logistyczne, środki i umiejętnosci do zorganizowania szybkich evakluacji które są częscią działalnosci w ratowaniu i odzyskaniu ofiar katastrof. Większość organizacji, “grup pomocy,” grup pośredniczących, organizacji religijnych, i osobników uczestniczą przez dostarczanie usług wsparcia które są drugą ważną fazą kierownictwa i zarządu katastrof. Uczucia takie jak sympatia, miłosierdzie i poczucie wspólnej odpowiedzialnosci popędzają służby pomocy i gdy telewizja i prasa zaprzestają koncentrowanie się na dotkniętych dzielnicach i gdy sytuacje zaprzestają w zbudzanie pozytywnych uczuciawych reakcji, akcje ratunkowe spadają nadół. Zazwyczaj trwają one tylko około miesąca. Trudniejszą częscią jest faza trzecia, która jest odbudową i rehabilitacją. Klęski, katastrofy naturalne włączając wojny i konflikty niszczą budowe, włączając domy, środki egzystencji i wpędzają wielu w przygrębienie i rozpacz.
Jest naszym celem przywrócenie strat tego co zostało uszkodzone lub zniszczone — w sposób przemyślamy i planowany. Lecz większość organizacji. szczególnie tych które są kierowane przez uczucia pozytywne wzbodzone przez katastrofy i klęski nie wstępują w podobny rodzaj interwenci. Wymaga to dłuższego zaangażowania, większych wkładów, celów kierujących, planów operacyjnych i czasowych, sprawdzania i oceny, oszacewania kosztorysów od deski do deski. Niektórzy przeprowadzili by sprawdzenie i ocenę skutków i resultatów na konću programu. To jest dlaczego interwencje w odbudowie są przewazne wykonywane jako osobne projekty lub projekty częściowe (części projektów). To jest co j robię aby podzielić z wami moje doświadczenia w Capas i Tarlac z Aeta krajowymi dzielnicami, które były poważnie dotknięte przez wybuch na Gorże Pinatubo.
Gdy uczucia pozytywne takie jak wśpółczucie i listość przeminęły kompletnie; plemienni ludzie z Aeta (którzy byli zawsze odsuwani od centrum ludności), odpadli ze świadamości narodowej i zostali pozostawieni sami sobie, jeżli nie kompletnie zapomnieni. Odbudowa tego co zostało zniszczone zajmuje lata, a dla wielu nawet całe życie, aż do czasu gdy nowa klęska nadejdzie. Klęski i nieszczęścia są wstrząsami zewnętrznyni, one wtrącają dzielnice w nędzę. Aby wydzwignąc się z nich zajmuje dziesięć lat dla zniszczonego domostwa lub dzielnicy. Jest to opinia Arsenio Balisacan, PhD, czołowego specialisty w studiach nad nędzą na Filipinach.
Odbodowa muśi być widziana przez prizm długoterminowego rozwoju dzielnicy. Projekty odbudowy lub programy nowmalnie obejmują przygotowanie dzielnicowe, aby umożliwic dobre borykanie się z przyszłym nadejściem nieszczęścia. . . . Ja czuję że CTF jest motywowany przez wewnętrzną chęć do przemyślenia, nowego zdefiniowania i uczynienia natchnienia Kamilianów bardziej znaczącym w spotkanie się z klęskami i katastrofami.
Ks. Sam A. Cuarto MI
Trwajmy w modlitwach za ofiary Tajfunu Ketsana i wszystkich obecnych kataklizmów w Azji–i za tych którzy im pomagają.
Ks. Scott Binet MD MI
Translacja: Andrzej Stefanski
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Ketsana 5 – Philippines – Marikina Disaster Relief Project
by Fr. Scott Binet
The effects of Typhoon Ketsana are still very evident in Metropolitan Manila. The World Health Organization indicates that as of October 22 – some 885,039 families (4, 342,997 individuals) have been affected in 1,915 barangays [neighborhoods]. And 40,287 families (190, 027 individuals) remain in 401 evacuation centers. Casualties (directly attributable to the disaster) are 464 dead and 531 injured. As of Oct. 22, 2009 – some 238, 390 families [1, 430,124 individuals] reside in still-flooded areas in 30 municipalities. Reports from Department of Health Hospitals and some private hospitals show 1, 963 cumulative admissions for Leptospirosis since the disaster with 148 deaths. This information was excerpted from WHO Health Cluster Report (17)
The people are still suffering – from disease; from the effects of the flooding on their homes and their livelihoods – and because of the death of their loved ones. The suffering cannot be put into words – images accompanied by music sung by Andrea Bocelli (por ti sere = I will raise you up) do it some justice:
CTF Philippines with the support of CTF Central and SOS DRS has been responding to the devastation caused by the storm since it hit on September 27: See Typhoon Ketsana 1-4 in various languages.
CTF Philippines has been providing food, clothing, hygiene products, pastoral support and medical care for victims in primarily 3 areas – Buso Buso, Cainta and Marikina (all in Metropolitan Manila). And their help continues as does the suffering of the people they are serving. CTF Central and SOS DRS have collaborated in a special way with CTF Philippines to help in Marikina via the capable hands of Fr. Sam Cuarto. Many thanks go to the Filippino community in Wisconsin (USA) as well for their support of the Marikina Project.
Here is Fr. Sam’s description of the joint effort -
The Relief and Rehabilitation Assistance to Member-Families of Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program
Location: Marikina City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Starting Date: October 15, 2009
Termination Date: April 2010
Coordinator: Fr. Samuel A. Cuarto, MI
Mailing Address: Camillus MedHaven – 29 Apitong St., Marikina Heights,1800 Marikina City, Philippines – Email: frsam@hotmail.com, Phone No. (632) 9484456
Date: October 5, 2009
1. Description of Situation
On September 26, 2009 Typhoon “Ondoy” (known internationally Typhoon Ketsana) hit the Philippines, wrecking havoc and wide swath of destruction in Metro Manila and the neighboring provinces. Massive torrents of rain water poured down for 9 hours, flooding 80% of Metro Manila, submerging communities, washing out homes, killed more than 300 people, seriously affecting half a million families and causing enormous damages estimated at 4 billion pesos. Marikina City, a low-lying valley sandwiched between the high level Quezon City and the province of Rizal with Marikina River traversing across its belly, is one of the hardest hit areas in the National Capital Region.
Marikina City is home to Camillus MedHaven, a 110 bed capacity long-term care facility for the elderly and handicapped operated and managed by the Philippine Province of the Order of St. Camillus. Camillus MedHaven has conceptualized and is now carrying out a Community Based Rehabilitation Program for handicapped children of urban poor families in Marikina City. While the elderly and handicapped residents of Camillus MedHaven (CM) were not affected by the flooding, some of the homes of its staff members were submerged in flood, losing most of their belongings and severely affected members of its Community Based Rehabilitation Program (CM-CBR) for handicapped children of urban poor families. Of the 190 member families of CM-CBR Program, approximately 60 families have their homes devastated. Most are residents of Balubad in Barangay Nangka. Located next to Marikina River, Balubad is an urban poor resettlement community in Marikina City holding hundreds of low-income families mostly belonging to the informal sector. Most families survive on a daily basis by collecting garbage and scraps for sale, contracted labor services in the construction sector and by itinerant vending. In the onslaught of Typhoon “Ondoy” Marikina River rose to critical levels and swept away the makeshift settlements. Made of light materials, their makeshift homes tumbled like card boards with onrushing waters. Several hundred families were gravely affected, including the approximately 60 member-families of Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program.
This disaster has effectively crippled the urban poor settlement of Balubad and rendered the affected families that are already poor into a deeper state of impoverishment. There is dire need for immediate relief services. In particular, there is urgent need for food, water, basic medicines, clothing, blankets and towels. Toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary napkins and diapers for children are also needed. The local government of Marikina is undertaking relief services, clean up operations of streets and removal of stalled vehicles and other debris throughout the city. Major media networks in the Philippines, the Philippine military, civic groups, non-government organizations and private individuals are responding but the focus of efforts have been in areas highlighted by media coverage. The urban poor settlement of Balubad in Barangay Nangka have not been penetrated by relief efforts to a level that will provide immediate supplies to affected families. At this stage of disaster response, activities are still in relief mode.
2. Relief and Rehabilitation
Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program is currently undertaking continuous relief operations for the next weeks. While primary target families are those members of the CM-CBR Program, neighbouring households and extended families are assisted. These operations has the primary objective of relieving the immediate and urgent needs of affected households namely food, potable water, dry clothing, blankets, mats and towels, basic medicines, toiletries and related sanitary supplies. These continuous operations will last for the next four weeks with food, water and basic medicines procured by funds from CTF Central and SOS DRS. The rest of the other supplies shall be sourced from other organizations, groups and individual donors responding to appeals from the Philippine Province of the Order of St. Camillus. The St. Camillus Scholasticate Community in Loyola Heights, Quezon City has been continuously providing packed relief goods sourced from donor groups and individuals.
Most importantly, Camillus MedHaven shall assist in the rehabilitation of devastated homes. The primary target of this infrastructure rehabilitation assistance are the 60 member-families of Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program. The assistance will take the form of providing affected families with materials specifically GI sheets, wood and common nails for roofing and some bags of cement to repair or fortify broken house posts and beams. These will be procured using the funds of CTF Central and SOS DRS.
Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program partners with the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady Mother of Mercy in providing the affected community of Balubad with pastoral care. The Sisters of Charity have a religious community embedded in Balubad and some members of the Congregation that have counseling background will provide counseling services for psychological trauma as well as spiritual care in coordination with the local parish.
Finally, Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program partners with the Rotary Club of Timog, Quezon City through Dr. Benjamin Alonzo, MD for the medical component of this relief and rehabilitation project. Dr. Alonzo and his fellow Rotarians provide the medical supplies and conduct medical assistance especially in treating waterborne diseases and providing preventive measures against the onset of epidemic.
3. Monitoring and Evaluation Matrix
Hereunder is the Project Implementation Plan with the timeline. The provision of relief services shall be monitored through photo documentation and distribution lists duly signed by recipient families upon receipt of goods handed out. The distribution lists shall indicate the number of dates of distribution, names of recipient families and frequency of distributions. Other indicative activities such as medical care, repairs of devastated homes and psycho-spiritual care by the Sisters of Charity shall be photo documented.
Receipt of funds from CTF Central and SOS DRS shall be documented through bank statement indicating the remittance date and amount received. Disbursements shall be documented with expense vouchers duly supported by official receipts from suppliers. There shall be no competitive bids conducted as this is a micro-project and funds requested is small-scale.
4. Final Report
The Project Coordinator, Fr. Samuel A. Cuarto, MI who is the Religious-in-Charge of Camillus MedHaven shall provide the Narrative and Financial Reports post-project on April 10, 2010. The report shall be submitted to the Provincial Superior of the Philippine Province, Fr. Ivo Anselmi, MI, with copies furnished by e-mail to Fr. Charlie Ricafort, MI, Bro. Luca, MI and Fr. Aristelo Miranda, MI. Fr. Ivo Anselmi, MI shall formally submit this Report to CTF Central and SOS DRS.
5. Budget
The proposed total budget for this micro-project titled, “Relief and Rehabilitation Assistance to Member-Families of Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program” is Php 1,836,000.00 (Euro 30,000/$US 45,000)
Fr. Sam A. Cuarto, MI
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 1 so far )Tajfun Ketsana 4A – (Filipiny)
Wysyłka: 11 Października 2009
Prawie trzy tygodnie minęło od czasu gdy Tajfun Ketsana spustoszył Manilę i okolice, posuwając się do innych krajow w Azji. Dla większości świata, ruina którą ten straszny huragan pozostawił za sobą jest odległym wspomnieniem. To jest sposób w jakim dzisiejsza prasa operóje obecnie, szczególnie jeżli katastrofy światowe nie dają widoku na polepszenie. W ostatnich trzech tygodniach, Azja była spustoszona przez 3 trzęsienia ziemi w Pedangu, 2 tajfuny nas Filipinach i tsunami na Samoa. Dla ludnośći Filipin, skutki Tajfunu Ketsana nie są tylko wspomnieniem lecz rzeczy-wistoscią z którą trzeba jeszcze obecnie współżyć. To jest situacja dla CTF Filipiny, CTF Centralna (Służba Specjalna Zakonu Kamilianóv, Centralna,) i SOS DRS.
Jak wspomnieliśmy w ostatnich informacjach (Ketsana 3), akcja ratunkowa kontinuje. Rozwinęła większe nasilenie przez pomoc Ks. Ivo Anselmi I początkowe wsparcie finansowe przez CTF Centralny. Ks. Ivo, kierownik Kamilianów na Filipinach, wydał list otfarty do swoich wspótpracowników dając im poparcie I oczekiwanie na pomoc zarządu. Według ostatnich informacji poparcie finansowe, już nadeszło od CTF Centralnego, Australia (Kamiliani), Taiwan (Kamiliani) i Niemcy (Prowincja.)
Na zebraniu grupy Kamilianów odpowiedzialnych za organizacje pomocy, który odbyło się dniu 2 października pod kierownictwem Brata Łukarza Perletti MI, powzięto decyzje poszukiwania funduszów od CTF Centralnego i SOS DRS. CTF Centralna przesłała pienądze wcześniej w tygodniu przy pomocy Ks. Paula Guarise MI. Jako członek CTF Centralnego był on ważnym pomostem w komunikacji pomiędzy Bratem Łukaszem na Filipinach i mną w stanach zjednaczonych. Mając Marka Iazzolino, który był blisko Brata Pawła w Rzymie okazało się rownicż błogosławieństwem dla nas. Znajomość Marka z metodami prac Karitasu jest z pewnośći pomocna.
CTF Centralna przesłała znaczną ilość pieniędzy z pomocą dla programu pomocy przedstawionem mnie/CTF Centralna przez CTF Filipiny. SOS DRS oszacowuje propozycje i również rozważa inny rozdział pieniędzy do kontinuacji obecnych programów. Serdecznie dziękujemy Ks. Sam, Meng, Ivo i Aris za ich wysiłki.
Co następuje to są sprawozdania z ostatniego zebrania CTF Filipiiny z Bratem Łukaszem, które odbyło się 6go października w Marikana. Gdy to piszę, Brat Łukasz jest z powrotem w Rzymie po opacznościowej Wstępnej Wizycje do Filipin.
Co następuje to są sprawozdania z ostatniego zebrania CTF Filipiiny z Bratem Łukaszem, które odbyło się 6go października w Marikana. Gdy to piszę, Brat Łukasz jest z powrotem w Rzymie po opacznościowej Wstępnej Wizycje do nauridzonych prez Tajfun Ketsana. On był tam a by mieć zaciszny odpoczynek i zamiast tego znalazł się w śród Tajfunu–z pewnością według planu Boskiego.
CTF Centralna będzie spotykać się 12 pażdiernika aby oszacować sytuację na Filipinach oraz te na innych rejonach dorkniętych przez katastrofy: Kenya, Myanmar, Italia i i innych odległych miejscah. My mamy wide spraw na naszym notatniku. Ja sam patrzę w przyszłość do tego zebrania. Zaiste, ja będę tam wkrótce. Gdy to piszę, jestem wysoko ponad Kanadą. Świat wydaje się stąd mały. Istotnie jest tak z nawoszesną podróżą i komunikacją. Jest to dobrze, bo to umczlivia nam częste spotkania. Miłego czytania!
Ks. Scott Binet MD, MI
Translacja: Andrzej Stefanski
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Tajfun Ketsana 4-B (Filipiny)
Wiadamości Następujące po zebraniu odbytym 6 października, 2009
Marikina, Koledgium Sw. Kamila
Ostatnie wiadamośći o pracach ratunkowych
Pasig, Polyklinika Swiętego Kamila-Ks. Rolly ofiaruje nowe wiadomości o zniszczeniu poniesionemu przerz ekwipunek. Będziemy potrzebować około 850,000 pesów do utrzymania i kupna nowego sprzętu (ekwipunku.) To będzie częsćią prropozycji, która będzie przedstawionia do Karitasu Italia.
Medhaven–Potwierdzamy raport przesłany przes Ks. Sama. On dnosi, “Program Rehabilitacyjny Kamila operujący w Medhaven jest obecnie podejmójący stałe operacje wspomogające na kilka następnych tygodni. Podczas gdy pierszeństwo mają rodziny członków nalerzących do Programu CM-CBR, również domostwa i okoliczne rodziny otrzymóją pomoc.” To znaczy że ponad 200 rodzin jest włonczonych do programu. W tej okolicy my zobowiązujemy się do kontinuacji dostarczania pomocy (podukty żywnościowe) przez jeszcze jeden miesiąc.
Zatwierdzanie propozycji projectu Ks. Sama
Propozycjia Ks. Sama będzie przedłoźona do CTF Centranlna i SOS DRS. Jest to związku z już otrzymanym zasiłkiem $15,000 euro. Ks. Ivo napisze list prosząc SOS DRS o pokrycie pozostałości w rzeczywistości calkowita należność za ten projekt jest około 30,000 euro.
Caritas Italia Apel
Ks. Łukasz przedstawi projekt propozycji do Karitasu Italia. Celem jest otzymanie pomocy finansowej na prace w związku z zapomogą. To musi być przedłożone jak najszybciej. On sam weźmie to do Rzymu. Apel jest zatwierdzony w swej zawartości z włączeniem jego operacji opisanych w paragrafie “dodatek.” Cały projekt będzie konynuować do 31 go października, 2009.
Ks. Kardem weźmie tą propozycję do Caritas Filipiny do zatwierdzienia.
Dalsze Kroki
The CTF in Canada: A Break Broken But Shared – A Personal Reflection
Writing while on holiday and away from his homeland as Typhoon Ketsana stuck the Philippines, Fr. Aristelo notes that his break from fundraising in the US has become both an opportunity to share with his fellow Philippinos the suffering of their people and a call to his fellow Camillians to truly live the 4th vow.
By Fr. Aristelo Miranda, MI
After doing a 3-month fundraising activity in the USA, I went to Ontario, Canada from September 22 to October 7 to have a break for a couple of weeks before returning to the Eternal City – Rome. The highlight of my visit in Canada was the 40th wedding anniversary of my cousin Elpidio “Boy” Baluca and his wife Madoline Deza Baluca and the mini-reunion of my relatives there. This wedding anniversary was a bit unique because its goal was not only the renewal of their marriage vows but also a fundraising and awareness activity for the mission of the CTF-SOS DRS. In the invitation was written, “no gifts please but a donation for the CTF-SOS DRS.”
It was Friday evening and the Kalayaan Cultural Center hall was filled with guests and friends. Most of those attending were Filipinos. During the program, I was given the opportunity to make a 30- minute presentation of the CTF-SOS DRS’ mission. Madoline and Boy did their best in all the preparations for said fundraising. I could hardly have imagined how much time and resources they invested for that event. Activities like this are nothing new to them since they have been involved in helping various fundraising activities for charitable purposes in Canada for quite a long time. Thus, mission accomplished!
L-R: Madoline, Fr. Aris, Elpidio
The day before the celebration I was planning what to do and what place to visit during the week just to have some fun with my relatives. But my plan was sabotaged by the news of the flash flood that on September 26 hit Metro Manila, especially Marikina, Cainta and Pasig [see map], where our Camillian missions are pretty much alive. So through the help of Nong Boy and Ate Dol, I was introduced to some generous persons and organizations. I immediately arranged some meetings with them – all with God’s help. I also approached Fr. Vid Vlasic, the pastor of Merciful Redeemer Church. He gave me the opportunity to preach at the six masses on the following weekend. It was indeed a busy week but a good opportunity to touch more generous hearts.
The only thing that I said upon getting the news about the flood was, “they (victims) were unfortunate but we (Camillians) are fortunate.” It was unfortunate for those people since this type of incident has been happening almost every year but without much intervention on the part of the government to institute preventive measures and an immediate evacuation and rescue plan. This causes hundreds of lives to perish in the raging waters of Marikina river.
We are fortunate because we were prepared in terms of both financial resources as a result of our annual fundraising and the continuous formation of our personnel (CTF) and in light of the many unexpected opportunities (incidents) to be able to broaden our relief and rehabilitation efforts and thus enhance collaboration and networking with various organizations. We don’t desire calamities and disasters to happen for the Camillians to be useful and functional, but they turn out to be avenues and challenges for us to “cast into deep waters” in order to become truly “fishers of men.”
This flash flood in September 2009 made me recall the flood that hit Marikina in 1998 wherein several lives, families and homes were ruined. I was there, together with our seminarians during the actual rescue of the victims. I saw their death-defying situation and faces of hopelessness. It then became a challenge for me to commit myself to this type of ministry, i.e. what the CTF does- disaster relief. No doubt we can expect more from the present calamity. So we need to brace ourselves to live the 4th vow of the Camillians: to serve the victims of this disaster even at the risk of our own lives.
by Fr. Aris Miranda MI
CTF Philippines
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 1 so far )Typhoon Ketsana (Philippines) – Fr. Sam Offers a Personal Reflection from the Field
by Fr. Scott Binet
Fr. Sam Cuarto is part of CTF Philippines. He is heading up the relief effort in Marikina after hurricane Ketsana. Here he offers a personal reflection on relief work and a brief update on his work with the Aetna Tribes in Tarlac (Luzon).
I came back yesterday from Capas Tarlac where I am doing community health and development work with the Aeta tribal people, even as our teams here in the Camillus MedHaven were doing continuous relief operations in tandem with a strong partner, the Rotary Club of Timog, Quezon City.
I went there to attend a Peace Forum organized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and the military because there is an ongoing conflict that threatens to boil over regarding ancestral domain claims of the Aeta indigenous peoples. There are conflicting tenurial claims, involving even the military which has a gunnery range. When conflicts like these arise it is the innocent civilian populations, in this case the Aeta tribal people, who will bear the brunt of suffering and collateral damage, even catching them in the middle of the conflict. Leftist armed groups operate with strong visibility in Central Luzon, which covers Tarlac. See Aeta struggle for Autonomous Land. And for a somewhat humorous look at Aeta culture see some members of the tribe dance
On my way back from Turlac I was caught by Typhoon Peping who overstayed its welcome in the Philippines, inflicted heavy damage to the Northern part (specially the rice producing region of Nueva Viscaya, Tarlac and Pangasinan), causing landslides, flooding several provinces, killing around 200 people! It seems all these calamities don’t stop; they keep coming and we really wonder what is going on! There is just so much suffering around calling on the inner strength of our compassion. Today, we go back to packing relief goods again.
Fr. Charlie directed me to connect with Scholastic Dan for more relief goods. Some of the families hit hard by Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) along the rivers here in Marikina[see map] were processed for relocation to safer areas in Laguna, which is another province. This place is also submerged in flood even until now. I remember Fr. Charlie’s comments that the urban poor are pushed out into “danger zones” such as riverbanks which are in fact “death zones.” It is the poor that really take the brunt of flooding; it is them that die when floods roared down on them, vulnerable as they are to calamities in these “death zones.” We had to make strong engagement with the local authorities to ensure that those going to be relocated would be provided adequate facilities and decent dwellings. Those members of Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program for handicapped children of urban poor families whom we intend to assist in rehabilitation are not included in the relocation because they reside at the other side, far from the banks of Marikina River. I am more convinced that our strong presence in areas afflicted by calamities and in their aftermath provide a horizon of meaning in who we are and what we do as Camillians. It renews us more in that we suffer as we struggle with people finding sense in their own suffering. We ask with these afflicted peoples the question about what matters most to us when all else were washed away with the flood and family members have only each other to hold on to. And as sometimes we lose hope, we struggle to make out in the gloomy situation a tiny light, a spark that would encourage hearts. Relief goods satisfy immediate human needs in times of disasters. Our being with the afflicted people, sometimes confused and dazed like them, may matter more than what we hand out.
SAM Camillus MedHaven 29 Apitong St., Marikina Heights 1800 Marikina City, Philippines Tel. No. 63 2 9484456; 09186434247
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Il Tifone Ketsana 4 – (Filippine)
p. Scott Binet MD, MI
Poco meno di 3 settimane sono passati dal giorno che il Tifone Ketsana ha devastato Manila e i suoi dintorni nelle Filippine in via verso altri paesi asiatici. Per una gran parte del mondo la distruzione che questa terribile tempesta ha causato sembra un ricordo lontano. Ma questo è il modo in che il ciclo di notizie funziona soprattutto in questi giorni quando le catastrofi del mondo sembrano non mostrare alcun segno di diminuzione. Nelle ultime 3 settimane l’Asia è stata devastata da 2 terremoti in Padang, 2 tifoni nella Filippine e uno tsunami in Samoa. Per il popolo delle Filippine gli effetti del Tifone Ketsana non sono una memoria ma una realtà ancora molto conivolgenete. È anche il caso per la CTF nelle Filippine, la CTF Centrale e SOS DRS.
Come ho notato nel nostro ultimo aggiornamento, Ketsana 3, la missione di soccorso continua. E recentamente ha acquisito una maggiore slancio grazie al supporto di p. Ivo Anselmi e il sostegno finanziario iniziale de la CTF Centrale. Padre Ivo, il provinciale dei Camilliani nelle Filippine, ha scritto una lettera aperta a suoi confratelli mostrando il suo supporto per loro e anche la speranza di ricevere degli aiuti dall’Ordine. Per quel che ne so sostegno finanziario ha già provenuto da CTF Centrale, Australia (Camilliani); Taiwan (Camilliani) e Germania (Provincia)
Alla prima riunione il 2 ottobre del gruppo camilliano responsabile per la risposta al Tifone Ketsana, i partecipanti – sotto la guida di Fratello Luca Perletti MI chi rappresentava CTF Centrale – hanno preso una decisione di cercare finanziamenti da ambidue CTF Centrale e SOS DRS.
CTF Centrale ha già inviato denaro grazie agli sforzi di p. Paolo Guarise MI. Come membro di CTF Centrale, egli è stato un “ponte” importante per la comunicazione tra Fratel Luca nelle Filippine e me negli Stati Uniti. E Marco Iazzolino sta anche a Roma cui presenza è stata una benedizione per la CTF Centrale. La conoscenza di Marco quanto riguardo al funzionamento di Caritas in caso di catastrofi è un gran aiuto.
CTF Centrale ha inviato una notevole quantità di denaro per sostenere la prima parte di un progetto di sollievo. Fu la sua risposta a una proposta ricevuta da CTF Centrale e mandata dalla parte di CTF Filippine. SOS DRS sta valutando la stessa proposta e la possibilità di finanziare la seconda metà del progetto, i.e. mandare una seconda distribuzione dei fondi per continuare a sostenere lo sforzo in corso.
In un modo particolare vorrei ringraziare per il loro lavoro p. Sam Cuarto MI, p. Domingo Barawid MI, p. Charley Ricafort MI, p. Ivo Anselmo MI e p. Aristelo Mirando.
Ciò che segue è il verbale della più recente riunione di CTF Filippine con Fratel Luca tenuta il 6 ottobre a Marikina. Al scrivervi Fratel Luca e già di ritorno a Roma dopo una visita alle Filippine direi “provvidenziale”. Lui era dai camilliani per predicare un ritiro ma invece si è trovato in mezzo al Tifone Ketsana – senz’altro parte del piano di Dio!
CTF centrale si riunirà il 12 ottobre a Roma per valutare la situazione nelle Filippine e anche quella dei progetti CTF in Kenya, Myanmar, Italia e oltre. Abbiamo molto da fare. Attendo con ansia lo stesso incontro. In realtà, io ci sarò fra breve. Al scrivervi sono in aereo sopra Canada. Il mondo sembra piccolo da qui. È, infatti, con viaggio moderno e comunicazione elettronica. È buona, però, perché allora noi possiamo essere in contatto più spesso. Lettura piacevole!
Fratel Luca scrive:
CTF Filippine
Seguito della riunione del 6 ottobre 2009
Marikina, St. Camillus College
La riunione è stata convocata come il seguito di una riunione precedente. L’obiettivo principale era:
Aggiornamento delle attività di soccorso; approvazione della proposta di progetto di P. Sam in ottemperanza ai requisiti di CTF Centrale e SOS Drs (USA); appello di Caritas Italia; ulteriori provvedimenti.
Aggiornamento delle attività di soccorso
Prendiamo atto che il lavoro di soccorso sta ancora andando avanti: il lavoro di riabilitazione è ancora molto lontano; le rispettive proposte saranno stabilite a tempo debito. Saranno inviate a Fratel Luca il quale a sua volta cercherà uno sponsor adeguato. I termini e le condizioni per rilasciare fondi di soccorso (in forma di prestito)alle vittime del tifone saranno discusse quando sarà tempo. Questo interessa coloro che non hanno contatti regolari con i Camilliani, mentre avere dei prestiti sarà più facile con il nostro personale lavorativo.
Al momento presente i fondi di soccorso ammontano a circa 1.600.000 pesos. Questo permette loro di andare avanti per un po’.
Veniamo alle diverse zone, in dettaglio:
Boso Boso – P. Meng ci comunica un rapporto interessante. 2.272 famiglie hanno avuto le loro abitazioni distrutte dalle alluvioni e dalle frane. 75% di loro hanno già avuto l’aiuto di una donazione. Il Governo sta dando degli aiuti, però molti di questi non raggiungono il posto di distribuzione, per questo hanno ancora bisogno di cibo per un altro mese. Nella stessa zona 211 famiglie sono rimaste senza un tetto: queste saranno considerate come beneficiarie di aiuto nella fase di riabilitazione.
In questa zona ci impegniamo a provvedere articoli di primo soccorso (vale a dire cibo) per un altro mese.
Cainta – P. Rolly ci informa che sono state raggiunte circa 1200 famiglie. Al momento presente si concentrano su 197 famiglie che risiedono a Dulong Parola: sono un po’ abbandonati e non hanno nessun aiuto specifico. La zona in cui vivono è facile ad essere colpita dalle epidemie e già si può sentire il fetore che si alza dalle carcasse in putrefazione .
In questa zona ci impegniamo a provvedere articoli di primo soccorso (vale a dire cibo) per un altro mese.
Pasig, St. Camillus Polyclinic – P. Rolly dà un aggiornamento sui danni subiti dalle attrezzature mediche. Grosso modo avremo bisogno di 850.000 pesos per la manutenzione e l’acquisto di nuove attrezzature. Ciò sarà parte della proposta da presentare a Caritas Italia.
MedHaven – Diamo ascolto alla relazione che ci fa P. Sam. Dice che “Il programma di riabilitazione basato sul territorio del Camillus Medhaven è ingaggiato in continue operazioni di soccorso per le prossime due settimane. Mentre le famiglie che hanno maggiormente bisogno di assistenza sono i membri di CM-CBR Program; vengono assistiti anche caseggiati limitrofi e famiglie numerose”. In questa zona ci impegniamo a provvedere articoli di primo soccorso (vale a dire cibo) per un altro mese.
Approvazione del progetto proposto da P. Sam
La proposta di P. Sam sarà inoltrata al CTF Central e a SOS DRS in vista della donazione già ricevuta di 15.000 Euro. P. Ivo scriverà una lettera chiedendo a SOS DRS di coprire il disavanzo: infatti il costo complessivo di questo progetto è di circa 30.000 Euro.
Appello alla Caritas Italiana
Fratel Luca presenta un facsimile di richiesta alla Caritas Italiana, il cui obiettivo è di ricevere un aiuto finanziario per il lavoro di soccorso. Dovrà essere presentato quanto prima. Egli stesso lo porterà a Roma. La richiesta è approvata nei suoi contenuti includendo le operazioni descritte nella sezione “aggiornamento”. L’intero progetto durerà fino al 31 ottobre 2009.
P. Charlie porterà la richiesta a Caritas Philippines per approvazione.
Prossimi provvedimenti
Mentre il lavoro di soccorso continua, stenderemo delle proposte per la riabilitazione con l’identificare potenziali beneficiari tra il nostro personale e le vittime più povere. Riserveremo un’attenzione speciale alla comunità di Boso Boso e ai bambini disabili del progetto Camillus Medhaven.
Preghiamo per le vittime e loro che aiutano.
p. Scott Binet MD,MI
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 1 so far )Typhoon Ketsana 4 (Philippines)
Slightly less than 3 weeks have passed since Typhoon Ketsana devastated Manila and its surroundings on its way to other countries in Asia. For much of the world the destruction that this terrible storm left in its wake seems a distant memory. That is the way the news cycle works these days, particularly when the disasters in the world seem to show no sign of abating. In the last 3 weeks Asia has been devastated by 2 earthquakes in Padang, 2 Typhoons in the Philippines, and a Tsunami in Samoa. For the people of the Philippines, the effects of Typhoon Ketsana are not a memory but a reality still very much to be reckoned with. Such is the case as well for CTF Philippines, CTF central and SOS DRS.
As I noted in our last update, Ketsana 3, the relief mission continues. And it has gained greater momentum through the support of Fr. Ivo Anselmi and the initial financial support of CTF Central. Fr. Ivo, the Provincial of the Camillians in the Philippines, wrote and open letter to his confreres showing support of them and hoping for aid from the Order. To the best of my knowledge financial support has already come from CTF Central, Australia (Camillians); Taiwan (Camillians) and Germany (Province).
At the first meeting on October 2 of the Camillian group responsible for orchestrating the relief effort, the participants – under the guidance of Brother Luca Perletti MI, made a decision to seek funding from CTF Central and SOS DRS. CTF Central sent monies earlier this week through the efforts of Fr. Paolo Guarise MI. As a member of CTF Central, he has been an important “bridge” for communication between Brother Luca in the Philippines and me in the US. Having Marco Iazzolino very close by Fr. Paolo in Rome has been a blessing for us as well. Marco’s familiarity with the way Caritas works in disasters is sure to be a plus.
CTF Central sent a significant amount of money to support the relief effort in response to an emergency relief proposal submitted to me/CTF Central by CTF Philippines. SOS DRS is evaluating the proposal itself and is looking at second a second distribution of monies to continue to sustain the effort underway. Many thanks to Frs. Sam, Meng, Charley, Ivo and Aris for their efforts.
What follows are the minutes from the most recent CTF Philippines meeting with Brother Luca held on October 6 in Marikina. As I write Brother Luca is back in Rome after a “Providential visit” to the Typhoon-stricken Philippines. He was there to give a retreat and instead found himself in the middle of a Typhoon – surely part of God’s plan.
CTF Central will be meeting on October 12 in Rome to assess the situation in the Philippines and that with its other disaster projects: Kenya, Myanmar, Italy and beyond. We have much on our agenda. I am looking forward to the meeting myself. In fact, I will be there shortly. As I write I am high over Canada. The world looks small from here. Indeed it is with modern travel and communication. That’s good, though, because then we can be in touch more frequently. Pleasant reading!
Brother Luca writes:
CTF Philippines
Follow up meeting held on October 6, 2009
Marikina, St. Camillus College
The meeting was convened as a continuation of previous meeting. The main goals were:
Update of the relief works; endorsement of Fr. Sam’s project proposal in fulfillment to CTF Central and SOS Drs (USA) requirements; Caritas Italia appeal; next steps.
Update of the relief works
We acknowledge that the relief work is still going on: rehabilitation work is far ahead and respective proposals will be set in due time. They will be forwarded to Bro. Luca who in turn will find an appropriate sponsor. The terms and conditions for granting relief funds (as loan) to the victims of typhoon will be discussed in due time: this applies to those who have no regular contact with the Camillians, while recovering loans will be easier with our staff.
Presently, the relief fund amounts to about 1,600,000 pesos, which entitles to go on for sometimes.
Coming to the sites in details:
Buso Buso – Fr. Meng presents an interesting survey. 2,272 families have had their livelihoods destroyed by floods and landslide. 75% of them have already been reached for a single donation. The Government is providing help but many do not reach the distribution site. Therefore, they still need food items for another expected month. In the same area 211 families have been made homeless: they will be considered as potential beneficiaries in the rehabilitation phase. In this area we commit to continue provision of relief work (food items) for another month.
Cainta – Fr. Rolly informs that about 1200 families have been reached. Presently they are focusing on 197 families residing in Dulong Parola: they are neglected and have no specific support. The area they live in is prone to epidemics and stench emanating from rotting carcasses can be felt already. In this area we commit to continue provision of relief work (food items) for another month.
Pasig, St. Camillus Polyclinic – Fr. Rolly offers an update on the damage suffered by equipment. Roughly, we will need 850,000 pesos for maintenance and purchase of new equipments. They will be part of the proposal to be submitted to Caritas Italia.
MedHaven – we acknowledge the report sent by Fr. Sam. It states “Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program is currently undertaking continuous relief operations for the next weeks. While primary target families are those members of the CM-CBR Program, neighbouring households and extended families are assisted”. It means that more than 200 families are been included in the project. In this area we commit to continue provision of relief work (food items) for another month.
Endorsement of Fr. Sam’s project proposal
The proposal of Fr. Sam will be forwarded to CTF Central and SOSDrs in view of the already received grant of 15,000 euro. Fr. Ivo will write a letter asking SOSDrs to cover the balance: in fact the total outcome of this project is about 30,000 euro.
Caritas Italia appeal
Bro. Luca presents a sample of appeal to Caritas Italia. It aims to get financial help for the relief work. It must be submitted at the earliest. He himself will take it to Roma. The appeal is approved in its contents, with the inclusion of the operations described in the item “update”. The entire project will last until October 31, 2009.
Fr. Charlie will take the proposal to Caritas Philippines for endorsement.
Next steps
While the relief work continues, we will start drafting proposals for rehabilitation by identifying potential beneficiaries, among our staff and the marginalized victims. Special attention will be given to Buso Buso community and to the disabled children of the Camillus MedHaven project.
Fr. Sam gives us a birds-eye view from the disaster.
It is an on-site report and a sign of the rigorous work that CTF Philippines is doing.
Dear Bro. Luca and confreres,
Thank you so much for your e-mail response. We just arrived from our relief operations. Tomorrow is another day. We still have enough goods to distribute until Sunday. We thank the Scholasticate Community (Fr. Evan & Bro. Dan) for the job well done in sourcing relief goods! Kudos to them!
Thank you also for all the support, quick mindedness and strong leadership you show us to get things done. Relief operations need to be swift, quick and responsive. I share in the caution of Fr. Scott, though, for us to observe the minimum requirement of justifying the sources and uses of funds. The template he sent us is a good start; we can limit the narrative though into one or two pages. What becomes very important for everybody is the ability to document expenses in a transparent and accountable way. Our strength lies in this area or so I think. We don’t stop there. We see to it that logistics, supplies and relief goods go to intended beneficiaries. It becomes very important to do solid ground work to identify families gravely affected by calamities. Our first two days of relief distribution were “irrational dispersal” of goods. Now we instituted “focused targeting” to maximize deep impact and equity. Distribution List becomes powerful, using the community leaders as informants to gather information on the extent of damage to households and prioritize families that need urgent assistance. Distribution List is a transparent manner also of accounting to our supporters and funding partners the resources we receive. We are in a continuous learning curve in this area. And as we respond more to disasters, we shall be able to come up with useful procedures based on our solid experience on the ground, operating systematic responses like what we are now doing.
I was talking with Fr. Aris through Yahoo Messenger last night. He is in Toronto, deep into fund raising for CTF and for the Order. Kudos to him too! God bless you Father Aris!
Thank you again Brother Luca and God bless. Onward Camillians! Fr. Sam A. Cuarto, MI
Camillus MedHaven
29 Apitong St., Marikina Heights
1800 Marikina City, Philippines
Tel. No. 63 2 9484456; 09186434247
Fr. Sam’s emergency relief proposal for Marikina Rehabilitation Assistance is, in a nutshell, as follows: assistance for 60 member-families of Camillus MedHaven Community Based Rehabilitation Program for handicapped children of urban poor families in Marikina City.
For our readers, Fr. Sam offers an interesting and insightful analysis of disaster management.
“Disaster management has three important phases: (1) rescue and retrieval, (2) relief, (3) rehabilitation. The Red Cross and military, and of course government agencies, usually are the most equipped to operate rescue and retrieval operations. They also have the logistics, means and skills to mount swift evacuations which are part of the activities in rescue and retrieval mode in disaster management. Most organizations, “do good” groups, media outlets, church based organizations and individuals respond through provision of relief services, which is the second important phase in disaster management. Emotions such as sympathy, mercy, compassion or sense of collective responsibility drive relief services and when media outlets cease spotlighting affected areas and the situation ceases to evoke emotional positive responses, relief efforts subside down. Normally they last only a month or so. The harder part is phase 3 which is rehabilitation and development. Calamities, natural disasters, including wars and conflicts destroy infrastructures, including homes, livelihoods and inflict trauma on many.
The objective here is restoring what was damaged, lost or devastated – in a deliberate and planned manner. And most organizations, especially those who are driven by positive emotions evoked by disasters and calamities do not go into this kind of intervention. This requires longer commitment, more resources, guiding objectives, operational and timeline plans, monitoring and evaluation, budget estimates with phase in and phase out mechanisms. Some would conduct impact studies post-project. That is why rehabilitation interventions are mostly done as projects or as component programs. And this is what I have been doing, just to share with you my
experiences in Capas and Tarlac with the Aeta indigenous communities who were gravely affected and devastated by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.
After positive emotions such as mercy and compassion were fully spent, the Aeta tribal peoples, marginalized as they already are from mainstream society, receded from the national consciousness and have now been left to fend for themselves, if not forgotten. Rehabilitating what was lost takes years and for some even a lifetime of commitment until another disaster strikes again. Disasters and calamities are exogenous shocks; they impoverish communities. To rise out from impoverishment takes ten years for an affected household, according to Arsenio Balisacan, PhD, the foremost expert in poverty studies in the Philippines. Rehabilitation has to be seen from the optic of long term community development. Rehabilitation programs or projects therefore normally embed disaster preparedness for target communities for them to be able to cope well when another calamity strikes … I am feeling the CTF is driven by an inner desire to rethink, redefine and make more relevant the Camillian inspiration vis-à-vis disasters and calamities.
Fr. Sam A. Cuarto, MI
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