Casino Plus rolls out P3-M aid for quake-hit Mindanao communities

MANILA, Philippines – Casino Plus’ corporate social responsibility arm has earmarked over P3 million in emergency assistance for communities hit by this week’s powerful Mindanao earthquake.

In a statement on Friday, Color Your World Foundation said it launched “Project Bigkis” disaster response program to support relief efforts following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake off Sarangani.

READ: Mindanao earthquake death toll rises to 55; over 1,100 injured

The foundation said the assistance would focus on General Santos City and Sarangani province, where affected families continue to grapple with the aftermath of the quake.

The relief package includes at least 150 livable tents, nearly 1,500 hygiene and medicine kits, more than 1,000 solar-powered lamps and supplies of potable drinking water.

The foundation said these would be distributed in coordination with government agencies and other partners involved in disaster response efforts.

“Our hearts are with our brothers and sisters in Mindanao during this devastating time,” Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma said.

Spytma added that the company aims to provide temporary shelter, essential supplies and other forms of immediate assistance to affected residents as communities begin recovery efforts.

READ: Phivolcs logs over 2,000 aftershocks after Mindanao earthquake

Beyond emergency relief, the foundation said it plans to undertake longer-term rehabilitation initiatives in quake-affected areas.

Among these are efforts to rebuild classrooms damaged by the disaster, with the goal of restoring safe learning spaces for students and teachers ahead of the new school year. The foundation also intends to roll out livelihood programs aimed at helping affected communities recover economically.

Michael Angelo Horfilla, Casino Plus director for corporate social responsibility, said “Project Bigkis” aims to bring together resources and partners to assist affected families.

The foundation said it would continue working with stakeholders, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, to sustain recovery and rehabilitation programs in affected communities. /pai INQ