Kakambal na ng isang pagiging Lasalyano ang pagtulong sa kapwa. Being a volunteer during the LCDC's relief operations gives me a sense of purpose because we have a mission to accomplish, which is to serve others, — especially the lost, the least, and the last. Volunteer work is rewarding, but we're not doing it just for the satisfaction; someone needs our help and support. Masayang makita na buhay na buhay ang volunteerism sa mga kapwa ko Lasalyano. These were the words of Eishelle Gloriani Marquez, Secretary General of the Council of Student Organizations following De La Salle University-Dasmariñas’ (DLSU-D) response during and after the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.
Last October 29, Cavite was among the areas hardest hit by strong winds, heavy rains and severe flooding, placing the province and nearby locations under State of Calamity.
With towns and cities inundated, communication services interrupted, and wide areas affected by blackouts, the DLSU-D community came together to aid those who were vulnerable in the face of disaster.
Various units of DLSU-D mobilized into action to immediately address the plight of the victims.
“The recent typhoon once again put to test our preparedness in cases of calamity and other forms of emergency. Despite, the heavy rains and strong winds, the Admin Services Team responded by making sure that the campus remains secure, safe, and accessible,” Vice Chancellor for Academic Services Dr. Nathaniel Golla said in an interview.
“All support units made themselves available during the calamity as the University opened its gates for the community as a temporary refuge. The Buildings and Facilities Management Office (BFMO) and Campus Sustainability Office (CSO) provided support for the upkeep of facilities including electrical and plumbing systems. The General Services Office (GSO) and the Ancillary and Assets Management Office (AAMO) assisted with logistics and safety and security. At the backend, the Information and Communications Technology Center (ICTC) responded by assuring that connectivity and communications are in place,” he continued.
Albert Puchero, director for the AAMO, said the University’s food concessionaires like Dream Café, Darlynn’s, and Café Museo provided food like hot lomi and goto to those who were on duty. The USG also donated grocery items that were included among the other donations.
On the part of the University’s Mission and Formation, the Lasallian Community Development Center (LCDC) took the lead in the University’s relief operations and supported the OVCAS units in preparing for the ULS for possible members of the community who would need assistance.
The Lasallian community was also spurred to action in donating to the LCDC’s relief drive which has reached P40,396.00 as of November 10. The donations were coursed through Gcash and other channels. Meanwhile, in-kind donations have been valued at P7,905.
“All sup “There were many Lasallians who donated not only money and food but also shared their time to help those in need,” LCDC Director Cherry Pareja said.
She added that they will distribute relief packs to affected families in Noveleta on November 17, in one of the areas identified by the RDANA of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office. The distribution will be held in coordination with the local parishes.
“My experience assisting with relief operations during STS Paeng has included many worries and hardships; however, despite all of this, I am still determined to volunteer when needed because I enjoy what I do, and knowing that it will help others, especially during this time of the disaster, gives me a sense of fulfillment. As a SERVE volunteer, I value not only the quality of support that I provide but also the beautiful moments that I share with other unique and warm people who are also eager to respond to those in need and advocate for disaster preparedness, “ Nadezhda Ntozka, a SERVE volunteer shared.
On the Academics side, the University swiftly declared the suspension of classes in line with the directive of the provincial government. The Chancellor also issued an advisory to faculty members to grant consideration to students who may have been adversely affected by the calamity.