Upon seeing the devastation brought by the Taal Volcano eruption in January 2020, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), A-PAD’s Lead Convenor in Central Visayas Region, organized a relief campaign titled “Give Aid to Taal Volcano Eruption Victims.” After conducting needs assessments and consultation meetings with government officials, community members, and a local NGO, Southern Tagalog People’s Response Center (STPRC), the CCCI decided that the donations (PHP126,000) from the campaign would be used to provide food items for the most affected families in Agoncillo.

On May 29, 2020, A-PAD Philippines and the STPRC distributed packs of rice, canned goods and cooking oil to 260 families of Barangay Banyaga in Agoncillo, Batangas Province.

Agoncillo is one of the hardest-hit municipalities from the Taal Volcano eruption. Barangay Banyaga turned into a ghost town when ashes from the volcano eruption covered the rooftops of houses, farms and roads. Adding to the disaster, just as the residents were starting to pick up their lives, a lockdown was enforced due to the threat of COVID-19.

“We are grateful to the community for their cooperation, the CCCI and all our partners from Central Visayas Region for their generous contribution, to STPRC for the efficient relief operation while strictly observing COVID-19 safety protocols, and to the Agoncillo Municipal Government for their support,” said Athea Penaloza, A-PAD Philippines Coordinator.