ALBAY, Bicol — In a remarkable display of unity and dedication, the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines, Inc. (MFPI) joined forces to deliver crucial relief to communities ravaged by Typhoon Kristine, embodying their spirit of service and resilience.
With MFPI Luzon Board Member Ken Vibar at the helm, mountaineering groups from across Luzon and Bicol region sprang into action on October 31.
Working together, they transported much-needed supplies to families in remote and devastated areas of Albay and Camarines Sur. These efforts were not only a show of solidarity but a testament to the MFPI’s commitment to helping those in need, regardless of the challenges.
In Barangay Tambo, Libon, Albay—one of the hardest-hit and most isolated communities—247 families received essential relief packs filled with rice, canned goods, and noodles.
Landslides have cut off this area, making access nearly impossible and limiting previous relief efforts. Yet, MFPI’s Albay/Bicol chapter, along with groups like Camp One, LRC, and local officials, braved the obstacles to ensure that aid reached these families who had been waiting, some for days, for any help.
Meanwhile, in Zone 1 of Barangay Loob, Gainza, Camarines Sur, MFPI volunteers from Naga City groups like Hagahag Mountaineers, Campers, Researchers, Earth Savers Trekkers (CREST), Nubentabang Ateneo HS 90 MuxOP, and Legazpi-based organizations LRC Outdoors, Camp One, and FBMI distributed gallons of clean water to 150 families. This area had remained largely unassisted due to its distance from town centers, but the MFPI’s resolve brought relief directly to their doorsteps.
This collective operation was made possible thanks to numerous MFPI-affiliated groups and individual donors, including Don Bosco Mountaineering Society (DBMS), UP Mountaineers, Halcon Mountaineering Society, and Bicol University’s BURABOD. Significant financial support, both from longtime MFPI members like former MFPI President Jojo Bonnin and various affiliated clubs, enabled these relief missions to succeed.
“We are grateful for everyone who helped, for each hand that lifted this mission,” MFPI President Juber Lugas shared, emphasizing the impact of collective action.
Lugas, who also chairs the MFPI National Search and Rescue Team (NSART), confirmed that MFPI members nationwide are on standby as another powerful storm, Typhoon Pepito, is expected to hit Bicol and Luzon.
MFPI Board Member for Luzon Hensel Quiling assured communities of MFPI’s readiness: “Our teams and rescue gear are prepared. Our chapters across the country stand ready to launch further donation drives if necessary. Nakaalerto lang po kami.”
This tireless dedication from MFPI volunteers and their partner organizations brought a lifeline to the survivors of Typhoon Kristine, embodying the Federation’s enduring mission to be there for others in the country’s most difficult moments. | Ricky Bautista with photos courtesy of the MFPI
