The spirit of unity and oneness continue to spread in Dubai and the Northern Emirates as the Kalayaan Philippine Independence Day (PID) 2020 committee has provided over 600 bags of groceries for fellow Filipinos through their “Tulong Kabayan, Laban Kabayan” initiative.
This project saw the collaboration of different Filipino volunteers who came together to repack and organize goods that will then be given to over 600 beneficiaries in need as they were affected by the impact of the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the country.
“We felt the need of immediate response to the needs of our kababayans in these trying times. As many Filipinos stepped into Bayanihan, we have to take care of each other and ensuring the survival amidst melancholy and uncertainty. We believe that providing temporary relief to their commodity will, in a way yield hope for them to carry on,” said Kalayaan PID 2020 Chairman Jason Bucton.
Filipinos were able to claim their food packages at the Philippine Supermarket and the Al Maya Supermarket, while adhering to the social distancing rules set in place by the UAE government through the creation of an organized Google form system.
“An instruction was sent to them on how to get an online permit, to keep social distancing in the pick up area and a photo of the items that they will get. Coordination with supermarkets in 3 different areas were done weeks before the pick up days to ensure a smooth process and collaboration,” explained Kalayaan PID 2020 Vice Chairman Lance Japor.
Kalayaan PID 2020 committee also extended their gratitude to Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes and his spouse Dr. Yasmin Balajadia-Cortes for giving the committee guidance and providing their unwavering support. The committee likewise acknowledged and thanked the efforts of Emirates NBD, whose support for the community is once again proven during these troubled times.
“Dito natin masusukat ang tunay na Bayanihan at katatagan ng mga Pilipino sa Gitnang Silangan. Sa pagkakataong ito, higit na kailangan ng mga Pilipino ang tunay na pagkakaisa para malagpasan natin ang matinding pagsubok na ito. May kasabihan na ang mga OFWs ang itinuturing na makabagong Bayani – mga ordinaryong Pilipino na gumagawa ng extra ordinaryong bagay sa extra ordinaryong panahon. Dapat din silang protektahan kapag sila ay naging biktima sa panahon ng krisis,” said Kalayaan PID 2020 Communications Chief Conrad Quizon.
Apart from Dubai, the ‘Tulong Kabayan, Laban Kabayan’ initiative also reached several parts of the Northern Emirates where more Filipinos reside. “I would also like to commend the efforts made by leaders in the Northern Emirates who helped the community,” said Kalayaan PID 2020 adviser Josie Conlu.
