Mindanao State University-Maguindanao Spearheads Donation Drive for Flash Flood Victims in Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte
In an inspiring act of solidarity and compassion, the University’s Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, spearheaded a donation drive for the flash flood victims of Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte on July 17, 2024. A total of 260 households received psychosocial assessments, hygiene kits, and water containers, while 180 children participated in psychosocial activities.
During the courtesy call meeting, the mayor of LGU-Matanog, Hon. Zohria S. Bansil-Guro expressed, “Napakalaking tulong po ito sa amin. On behalf of the LGU-Matanog, maraming salamat sa MSU-Maguindanao headed by Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona for spearheading this Donation Drive.”
The psychosocial assessments were a series of focus group discussions where participants shared their experiences during the flash floods, the challenges they faced, their coping mechanisms, and the support they received. Many participants became emotional when discussing their hopes and concerns for the future and the rebuilding of their community. These was led by the Social Work (SW) Department.
Simultaneously, 180 children participated in psychosocial activities facilitated by SW students. These activities provided emotional and psychological support, helping the children reduce stress, and promote social interaction and a sense of normalcy. The children’s smiles showed they enjoyed the activities, and they were given candies, drinks, and food afterward.
Furthermore, some of the LGU-Matanog officials underwent debriefing activities, highlighting MSU-Maguindanao’s inclusive and holistic approach to disaster response. By engaging all university stakeholders, Chancellor Limbona’s administration underscored the importance of collective effort in community outreach. This initiative powerfully reminds us that in times of calamity, our greatest strength lies in unity and collaboration.
The drive was joined by Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, along with Social Work Department, MSU-Maguindanao Extension Campus at Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao, Student Supreme Council, Information Press and Publication Office, Public Administration Department, Sports Development Office, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, and 549th Engineering Battalion.
Also, part of the meeting was Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO), representatives from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), and the Mindanao Organization for Social and Economic Progress, Inc. (MOSEP).