Bohol leads donations drive 

for Tino-hit Cebu communities

By Elvira C. Bongosia

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) — In a province long defined by resilience and community spirit, Bohol launched a Christmas donation drive to support storm-hit families in neighboring Cebu.

The One SugBohol: “TINO-od nga Pasko, UWAN sa Gugma” initiative reflects the Boholano tradition of extending compassion to communities facing hardships.

The program collected donations for Cebu residents affected by Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi), many of whom lost homes and were in urgent need of food, water, clothing, medicine, and temporary shelter.

The provincial government formally introduced the initiative during a ceremony at the New Provincial Capitol, followed by a Holy Mass led by Diocesan Administrator Rev. Fr. Gerardo Saco Jr.

The celebration served as a collective prayer offering for those affected by the storm.

Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado emphasized Bohol’s commitment to help its neighbor recover.

“Cebu has been hardly hit by Typhoon Tino, and thousands of families are struggling. This initiative is our way of standing with them during a difficult moment,” said Aumentado.

The Provincial Capitol opened its doors to Boholanos, who wished to donate in cash or in kind, with contributions dropped off at the Public Assistance and Complaint Desk (PACD).

The Provincial Human Resource and Management Development Office (PHRMDO) spearheaded the drive.

According to PHRMDO Head Dr. Anne Mariquit Oppus, the provincial government accepted donations until the deadline and later transported the collected goods to Cebu.

Aside from material aid, Bohol also deployed an 11-member team from the Provincial Health Office’s Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) to Danao City, Cebu.

The team provided psychological first aid and psychosocial support to families recovering from the typhoon.

Fully equipped, they operated independently throughout the four-day mission.

In line with its commitment to focus on relief efforts, the provincial government earlier canceled its annual Christmas party.

On Nov. 6, the Bohol Provincial Government announced that it has cancelled its 2025 Christmas Party. (ECB/PIA7-Bohol)

Diocesan Administrator Rev. Fr. Gerardo Saco Jr. presides over a Holy Mass at the Bohol New Capitol Building lobby, held as a spiritual offering for communities affected by the recent calamity. (Photo credit: Provincial Government of Bohol)