Cebu-based NGO reaches Danao, Bohol w/ relief aid

CEBU, Philippines - A group from a non-government organization Sunday arrived in Getafe, Bohol to deliver relief goods to the affected residents in Barangay Magtangtang of Danao town, also in Bohol.

Engineer Romeo Cabading, a resident of Getafe, said no help has arrived in this area since the earthquake struck last Oct. 15, prompting him to ask the Knight-Stewards of the Sea, Inc. (SeaKnights) to include Danao in its list of recepients of relief aids.

Magtangtang is about 45 minutes from the port of Getafe and although there is no major damage on its roads, a bridge that connected it with the other village was nearing collapse.

Members of SeaKnights, on board a pick-up and a larger truck, had to go slowly upon reaching the damaged bridge, and upon reaching the barangay, they saw people outside fallen houses, filling up the streets while waiting for any help to arrive their place.

At least 300 families received rice, canned goods, noodles, biscuits, candles, toiletries, and others from the SeaKnights, during the distribution done in front of the collapsing church building, amid a series of aftershocks. Barangay Tabok, about 15 minutes from Magtangtang, also received similar aid from the SeaKnights.

Father Edu Deligero, who used to be the parish priest of the town, said he was not sure if Danao could recover easily, especially that majority of its people are poor, although he hoped that with all the help the town could get from outside, the residents may be able to rebuild their lives. (FREEMAN)