Over 700 individuals, including 365 families, affected by Typhoon Emong in Oriental Mindoro received relief assistance through Mindoro State University’s (MinSU) Balikatan 2025 - a university-led relief initiative spearheaded by the Research, Innovation, Technology and Extension (RITE) Department, in partnership with campus employees, stakeholders, and private donors.
On August 1, 2025, MinSU Bongabong Campus distributed 105 relief packs to residents of Sitio Gumayos and Sitio Panluan in Brgy. Hagan in Bongabong along with a feeding program for typhoon-hit families.
At the Calapan City Campus, 150 families from Sitio Caguisikan, Brgy. Gutad received relief goods, while 106 pupils from Caguisikan Elementary School were also provided with school supplies on August 4, 2025. On the same day, MinSU Main Campus extended assistance to 112 affected families in Brgy. Bagong Buhay II, Victoria.
In total, donations from the three campuses reached ₱160,767 - ₱97,314 worth of in-kind goods and ₱63,453 in cash, sourced from the three campuses: MinSU Calapan City Campus, ₱73,501((₱40,360 in-kind; ₱33,141 cash), MinSU Main Campus, ₱37,462 (₱20,000 in-kind; ₱17,462 cash), and MinSU Bongabong Campus, ₱49,804 (₱36,954 in-kind; ₱12,850 cash)
Typhoon Emong struck the province on July 24, 2025, causing severe flooding and heavy silt deposits in various communities.
“Sa 40 years ko dito, ngayon lang ako nakaranas na hanggang dibdib ang baha at hanggang tuhod ang banlik,” said Nanay Elsie Pascual, one of the affected residents from Brgy. Bagong Buhay II, Victoria. “Nagpapasalamat kami kasi kami ay napili ninyong bigyan ng tulong sa kabila ng madaming nangangailangan,” she added.
Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol, University President highlighted the compassion and commitment that fueled the relief mission.
“Ang pagtulong ay wala sa dami ng ibibigay kundi kung ano ang naipaabot ng puso. At gaano man kalayo, pupuntahan namin kayo,” said Pres. Apostol during the relief operations.
Further, Mr. Leonel C. Mendoza, OIC-Vice President for Research, Development and Extension who spearheaded the activities, also emphasized the University’s commitment to the community, especially through MinSU’s extension services.
“MinSU is not only a harbinger of quality education, but also a living bridge to the community - rooted in our shared culture, strengthened by our heritage, and driven by the enduring spirit of bayanihan. Without the people we serve, MinSU has no purpose, for your hopes and struggles are the heartbeat of our mission,” he shared.
He also assured that MinSU, through the RITE Department, will continue to champion projects that are more responsive and beneficial, bringing science and research closer to the people and the communities it serves.
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