Tagle urges faithful to support Lenten ‘Fast2Feed’ program

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle is urging the faithful to support the Catholic Church’s Fast to Feed Lenten program that helps indigents and malnourished children.

“In this season of Lent, we are especially called to imitate the generosity of God, particularly towards the poor and the disadvantaged. Indeed, mercy demands that we not simply stand by and do nothing.

Those who are weak and vulnerable ought to feel the presence of brothers and sisters who can help them in their need. Together, let us help these children. Together, let us make a difference in their lives,” Tagle said in a pastoral letter.

The 40-day Season of Lent begins on March 1, Ash Wednesday.

“This year Pondo ng Pinoy is once again launching the FAST2FEED campaign to help raise funds to be used by the Hapag-Asa program for feeding at least 20,000 hungry and malnourished children belonging to Pondo ng Pinoy member-dioceses,” Tagle said.

He said it only takes a small amount from every individual to be able to help. “It only takes 1200 for six months or 110 a day to bring back a hungry and undernourished child to a healthy state,” he said.

Tagle stressed that the Lenten season is a time to pray, to sacrifice, fast, and do charity work.

Donors may deposit their donations to any of the following Pondo ng Pinoy Hapagasa bank accounts: Metrobank C/A No. 175-7175-50963-8, Banco de Oro C/A No. 2638-00407-0, BPI C/A No. 3061-0858, China Bank CIA No. 10357972-19, and Security Bank CIA No. 141-026133-00.

‘Blind date’ Meanwhile, two beauty queens – Miss World 2003 Top 5 finisher Mafae Yunon-Belasco and Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental 2016 Jennifer Hammond – challenged the public yesterday to show their support and care for the blind by wearing a blindfold while having dinner.

“Our project is called ‘Blind Date.’ Internationally, it started in Europe. The concept is for the guest to wear a blind fold while having dinner,” said Belasco, during the press launch held at the Ramen Metro Restaurant in Makati City.

Beloso said that the project is organized by the James R. Mackay Foundation in support of the programs of the PNSB.

Mackay, foundation chairman, said that diners will experience dinner and receive special experience for 11,000 per person at the City Club Alphaland in Makati City on February 28. (With a report from Robert R. Requintina)