14 November 2013 - The Philippine Consulate General wishes to express its deep appreciation for the outpouring of support and generosity, as well as expressions of concern and solidarity, from various sectors, organizations, individuals in Guam in the wake of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).
In the morning of November 13, the Government of Guam, through Acting Governor Ray Tenorio, in coordination with the Filipino Community of Guam (FCG), the Ayuda Foundation and the Philippine Consulate General, launched "Operation Guam Cares" which aims to raise funds to help the families and communities affected by Typhoon Yolanda.
The FCG is coordinating with the Ayuda Foundation so that proceeds of the fundraising effort may be used to procure four (4) 40-foot containers filled with medicines, medical supplies and equipment that will be transported to hospitals in the Philippines that were severely affected by typhoon Yolanda. This effort is likewise being coordinated by FCG and the Ayuda Foundation with MedShare, a non-profit organization in the US Mainland that is "dedicated to improving the environment and healthcare through the efficient recovery and redistribution of surplus medical supplies and equipment to underserved healthcare facilities in developing countries".
Several companies donating to the campaign joined the launch and press conference conducted at the chambers of Acting Governor Tenorio, including Calvo's Enterprises, which donated US$25,000.00, and Guam Regional Medical City, which donated US$50,000.00. Other donors present included Mr. Ed Ilao of JMI-Edison and Mr. Alex Thomas of Guam Cleaning Masters.
The American Red Cross-Guam Chapter also announced that it has launched its Family Finder service, where residents of Guam who have families in the affected areas may request assistance in reconnecting with their loved ones.
Consul Edgar Tomas Auxilian expressed the Consulate General and the Philippine Government's deep appreciation for the outpouring of support from the Government of Guam, the Filipino Community, Guam businesses and companies, non-profit organizations, and individual residents who have not only expressed solidarity with the people of the Philippines but have also generously donated to the relief efforts.
Meanwhile, donations for the communities affected by last month's earthquake in Bohol also continue to come in. These include donations from the Association of Government Accountants-Guam Chapter, which recently turned over a US$500.00 check for the Philippine Red Cross and the Pinoy Guam Bikers, which turned over their cash donation amounting to US$170.00, also for the Philippine Red Cross. END