Love In Action

Master is always deeply concerned when disasters occur in any part of the world. Upon hearing news of such events, She immediately provides financial assistance and sends relief teams. Through such efforts, Her unconditional love and support are conveyed to those affected, thus reducing their suffering while helping them to rebuild their lives.

In recognition of the selfless actions of governments, organizations and relief workers around the globe, Master expresses Her gratitude as follows: "Thank you, all the international help that brings care and necessities to afflicted victims. Thank you all the relief workers for taking time and forsaking your own comfort, even traveling great distance on unfavorable roads and conditions to bring love and assistance to people in a time of need. May Heaven bless you abundantly for your generosity and noble sacrifice."

2024年11月21日, 週四

    Offering Love and Assistance to Flood Victims in the Philippines

    By Formosa Relief Team (Originally in Chinese)

    In mid-June 2013, continuous heavy rain due to a tropical depression caused flooding in the Philippines, which led to the displacement of more than 98,000 people. Based on the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) report dated June 20, there were approximately 4,000 families who suffered from the disaster in Datu Montawal in the Province of Maguindanao. In some areas, the flood had not receded, which made it impossible for vehicles to enter. Very concerned about the affected people, Supreme Master Ching Hai immediately allocated US$20,000 and sent a team to proceed with disaster relief.

    Our relief team from Formosa arrived at Cotabato on June 24 and rented a vehicle to go to Datu Montawal. It happened to be a local holiday, so government offices were not open. We were fortunate to meet a local military officer who had assisted us in our Association’s disaster relief in 2011. He led the way for us to investigate the situation in the affected area. In most places, the flood had receded. However, the local citizens informed us that their rice seedlings were under water and that they would have to replant the rice fields. Many short-term vegetables such as eggplants were also under water.

    On June 25, our relief team met with the Director of the Municipal Social Welfare & Development Office (MSWDO). The MSWDO issued an official document to the National Food Authority which allowed us to purchase rice at low prices. We also bought salt, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, soap, detergent, cooking oil and vegan biscuits. These items were packed into 4,200 packages and the plan was to distribute them on June 27.

    Before we started the distribution, the MSWDO presented a special thank-you letter to The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, while all those present prayed in gratitude to God and Allah. The atmosphere was sincere and touching. Military personnel and volunteers from the caring MSWDO assisted us in managing the distribution. All the volunteers and the citizens who came to receive the items were full of happiness and gratitude.

    Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai for Flood Relief Work in the Philippines

    Description Amount (PHP)  Receipt
    Food (salt, sugar, vinegar, cooking oil, biscuits and rice), soap and detergent 870,798.95 A
    Gas and miscellaneous expenses 1,200.00 B
    Total PHP 871,998.95
    (US$20,000)

    The relief team members paid for their own expenses including transportation, food and lodging.