A total of 256 families displaced by the Sept. 12 fire in Barangay 27, Bacolod, received assistance, through a joint effort of the city government and SM Foundation’s Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) program.
The relief packs, distributed at the Apolinario Mabini Elementary School evacuation center, contained rice, canned goods, and other necessities. The operation was carried out with the assistance of the city’s Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), while distribution support came from SM City Bacolod’s employee volunteers.
Leading the volunteers was the mall’s assistant mall manager, Lorenzo Benedicto, who emphasized the importance of cooperation in disaster response and compassion towards those affected by the disaster.
“This is about helping families get through each day. By working hand-in-hand with the city, we hope to reach those who need assistance the most,” he said in a statement Sept. 25.
May Castro, public relations manager of SM City Bacolod, added that OPTE remains as SM Foundation’s rapid-response arm during emergencies. “This initiative aims to address the needs of communities in crisis.”
The blaze destroyed more than 200 houses and damaged other properties, displacing close to 900 residents. ||
