Philippines Flood Victims receive aid raised through Giothon – Hakbang Buhay

AED 525,000 presented to Red Crescent Society as month long fund raising activities conclude

Giothon – Hakbang Buhay (Walk for Life-Flood Relief) donated AED 525,000 to the Red Crescent Society – Dubai Chapter. Funds were raised during the walkathon, spearheaded by Philippine Business Council earlier this month as well as direct donations made by businesses and individuals at various outlets, including Giordano, Western Union and Fitness First.

The entire amount collected was handed over to Mohammed Zaroni, Manager of the UAE Red Crescent, Dubai by Benito Valeriano, Philippine Consul General in Dubai.

The month long fundraising campaign began in October with the Walk for Life at Safa Park, Dubai, where more than 8,000 people attended to show their support and donate to the Flood Relief Fund. Supported by the Philippine Consul General in Dubai and organized by the Philippine Business Council, Giordano, Western Union and ABS-CBN, the event sparked interest among several organizations and institutes that continued to contribute through corporate donations.

“It is extremely encouraging and very moving that people made the effort to contribute to the cause in their own special way, either through the event or direct donations, to help the thousands of victims so many miles away,” said Valeriano, “We are very pleased with the sum that we have collected and are keen to transfer this aid to the people affected by the typhoon.”

Ishwar Chugani, Executive Director of Giordano, one of the organizers, said that Giothon was an excellent example of how communities come together and do their part to help the community. “Fundraising activities such as these show just how much compassion there is when a disaster of this magnitude strikes. No matter what our individual situations may be, when it comes to reaching out a helping hand, we all need to pull together and do our bit. This is why we re-instated Giothon and this year has been our most fulfilling edition yet.”

“We’re amazed at the combined efforts of all parties who have gone to great lengths to be part of the Flood Relief Fund. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, has helped significantly. Our donation will help feed families, supply them with medicine and provide support to rebuild their homes and their lives,” added Lucille Ong, Chairperson, Philippine Business Council, Dubai.

The largest single contribution of AED 120,000 came from Barclays Bank and their employees. The students of the Green Fields Community School also collected over AED 5000 from fellow students and family members. Dubal made a direct contribution to the Red Crescent of AED 100,000.