Bantayan hospital gets P2.8 million aid from Rotary

The Rotary District 1070 in England donated •46,000 or at least P2.8 million worth of supplies, materials, and equipment for Bantayan Island District Hospital, which was among the government infrastructures damaged by super typhoon Yolanda in November.

Fourth district Representative Benhur Salimbangon received the donation from district governor John Dehnel. A memorandum of agreement was entered into by Salimbangon and Dehnel to ensure that the donation will be used for its intended beneficiary.

Representatives from the Rotary International District 3860, Rotary Club of Banilad Metro Cebu, Hope and Aid Direct UK also signed in the agreement after donating three generator sets, water purifier, clothes, blankets, water containers, food, and construction tools for Yolanda victims.

The donations arrived last week from Europe at the Cebu International Port. Salimbangon said the shipment is expected to be released by the Bureau of Customs within the week.

Salimbangon said that he is thankful for all the support given to his constituents, especially for those, whose houses were severely damaged by the super typhoon.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development-7 reported 64,000 houses totally wrecked and 30,000 partially damaged in northern Cebu.

Salimbangon said various private groups and foundations have extended financial assistance for the reconstruction of houses. Among the foundations was his sister’s MSY Charitable Foundation Inc.

Vice President Jejomar Binay, who chairs the National Housing Authority, is also giving P15 million worth of construction materials.

Salimbangon said he asked for P65 million from the Presidential Assistance for Repair and Rehabilitation.

“Daghan na gyud ang nitabang to rebuild the damaged houses but considering sa kadako sa damaged, we still need all the help not just rebuilding their homes but also livelihood for our fisherfolk and farmers,” Salimbangon said. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/FPL