On the Ground in Cebu to Advance Water Access and Community Recovery
From December 4 to 7, the PBV team conducted a field visit to monitor ongoing activities and plan the next steps in supporting communities in Medellin, Cebu, Philippines.
The area was severely affected by an earthquake that struck off the coast of Cebu on September 30, and the damage was compounded by Typhoon Kalmaegi (local name Tino), which hit central Philippines on November 4.
Water towers collapsed in many areas, and water systems have yet to be restored in numerous communities. This has made it difficult for many residents to access safe drinking water.
From the early stages of the response, PBV has deployed staff to the area and, together with local partners, provided safe drinking water and distributed hygiene supplies.
PBV in partnership with Balay Mindanaw Foundation (BMFI) , is supporting the restoration of water supply facilities and providing water purification assistance using SkyHydrant units. We are also assisting households whose homes were completely destroyed by the earthquake by providing timber, plywood, and tools so that residents can carry out repairs themselves. These activities are supported by a grant from Japan Platform (JPF).
During this field visit, the team monitored the progress of repairs to a water supply facility in Barangay Luy-a, Medellin. House repair kits and carpentry tool sets were also distributed to affected households in Kawit and other areas.
In addition, final coordination was carried out for the procurement and distribution of large water tanks for a water supply project in Medellin, to be implemented in cooperation with the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO). This will enable more people to access clean and safe water.
The need for support remains high. PBV will continue to work with our partner organizations across the Philippines to provide ongoing assistance.
PBV’s emergency response is made possible by the support of our donors and partners. Your support enables us to assist affected communities. Please consider making a donation here.