TV5 Kapatid spirit prevails during rescue, relief operations

The latest onslaught of torrential rains emphasized how the Filipino spirit is indeed weather-proof. Although Metro Manila and neighboring provinces were left paralyzed by the monsoon, Filipinos from all parts of the country came together in aid of those most in need. One of the groups organizing comprehensive rescue and relief programs is TV5, through RESCUE5 and the Alagang Kapatid Foundation. Hundreds of thousands of displaced citizens were able to benefit from TV5’s continuous operations. Kapatid stars also took part in various aspects of the network’s efforts to help those affected by the rains.

The Superstar herself, Nora Aunor, helped pack relief goods at the TV5 Broadway office, which is one of the drop-off points fordonations coursed through Alagang Kapatid Foundation. Danita Paner and IC Mendoza also joined the relief operations. Ate Guy and other TV5 volunteers headed to the Sta. Lucia covered court in Novaliches to distribute goods to the families taking shelter in the evacuation center.

 Artista Academy host Marvin Agustin also pledged 1,000 cooked meals to be delivered to flood victims. Meanwhile, Wil Time Bigtime host Willie Revillamedonated 200 relief goods and cash through his own Wil Foundation. Divine Lee was one of the first celebrities to use Twitter to help in relief and rescue operations, even setting up a mini-call center to handle distress calls and endorsements to RESCUE5. She was co-host of the Philippine version of Extreme Makeover Home Edition.

TV5 princess Jasmine Curtis Smith flew all the way from Melbourne to help in the relief efforts of Alagang Kapatid Foundation. Earlier today, Jasmine handled calls at the telethon organized by Good Morning Club with Enchanted Garden star Meg Imperial. Miss World Philippines 2012 runners up Mary Ann Ross Misa and Brenna Cassandra Gamboa also manned the phones. April “Congrats” Gustilohelped pack goods at the NEWS5 Aksyon Center.

 The waters may have subsided but the challenge of recovery remains. The Alagang Kapatid Foundation is still accepting volunteers to help repack and transport relief goods to evacuation centers in affected towns and cities. Donations can be brought to the Alagang Kapatid Foundation office at 730 Quirino Highway, San Bartolome in Novaliches. Other drop-off points and volunteer assembly areas are TV5’s Broadway office along Aurora Boulevard and Delta Studios along Quezon Avenue—also in Quezon City. For more information on how to help, log on to InterAksyon.com.