“This is the first help we’ve received since the typhoon,” said Crisaldina Lentejas. “The assistance we received is important, especially because food prices have skyrocketed, and the cost of rice is so high now.”

Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members and nonmembers both benefited in the Lingap sa Mamamayan (Care for Humanity) event which the Ecclesiastical District of Western Samar conducted at Barangay Trinidad in Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines on October 28, 2024.

This humanitarian endeavor proved to be timely as tropical cyclone Kristine (international name: Trami), caused widespread damage across the region days earlier.

The beneficiaries gathered at the property of Brother Cesar Merencillo, Buklod member from the Calbayog City Local Congregation. There, district supervising minister Brother Arnulfo Soliman and assistant district supervising minister Brother Joel Agtas led the giving of care packages containing rice, noodles, and canned goods to hundreds of recipients.

“This event is also part of our celebrating the birthday of our beloved Brother Eduardo Manalo, our Executive Minister. Our district has always been united with him in all of the Church activities, such as this reaching out to our fellowmen,” Brother Edgardo Zamora, district Light of Salvation overseer, explained. “We’re grateful and happy that, by the grace of our Lord God, we’re able to help those who are in need.”

“I am grateful to the Iglesia Ni Cristo for the blessings its members have given me,” nonmember Jonalyn Refamonte expressed. As part of the event, a video presentation was shown, highlighting the socio-civic activities of the Church, which have helped many individuals and communities over the years. — With reports from Edlen Zamora of INC News Section