PASIG, Philippines, 9th February 2024 – The MVP Group of Companies continues to show unwavering support for the Philippines’ recovery from Super Typhoon Odette, also known internationally as Rai, which struck in December 2021, causing widespread devastation across multiple regions. In the aftermath of the disaster, the MVP Group swiftly mobilized to provide immediate relief and support for the affected communities.

Fundraising and Immediate Response

Under the leadership of Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan, the MVP Group raised a total of 30 million pesos with contributions from Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan himself, First Pacific, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), Maynilad, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., PHILEX Mining Corp., and Mr. Benny Santoso. These funds were used for immediate relief efforts through the MVP Group’s subsidiaries. In addition to that, Makati Medical Foundation, Alagang Kapatid Foundation, and PLDT provided an immediate response through network resilience, continuous availability of communication services, and relief assistance to help communities mitigate disaster risks.

In a statement, Manuel V. Pangilinan, President & CEO of MPIC and Chairman of the MVP Group of Companies, expressed his continued support for the post-Odette recovery programs, emphasizing the importance of holistic and sustainable initiatives in rebuilding affected communities. “We are committed to the well-being of the Filipino people, especially in times of need. Our recovery efforts will be comprehensive, sustainable, and impactful.”

Holistic Recovery Initiatives

Two years later, Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF) is spearheading the recovery phase, ensuring a comprehensive rehabilitation of the affected areas. Melody del Rosario, President of MPIF, emphasized the foundation’s end-to-end approach to disaster resilience. “Our commitment goes beyond immediate relief as we aim for complete recovery. We work collaboratively with local government units affected by Typhoon Odette by focusing on projects that address different facets of recovery,” stated Del Rosario.

MPIF’s recovery projects encompass livelihood, food security, environmental sustainability, and climate change resilience aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reflecting the MVP Group’s dedication to social responsibility.  In particular, the recovery phase particularly addressed the following: 1: No Poverty, 2: Zero Hunger, 3: Good Health and Well-being, 5: Gender Equality, 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, 13: Climate Action, 14: Life Below Water, and 15: Life on Land.

Ongoing and Upcoming Projects

Already underway since last year, initiatives include the Repair and Rehabilitation of Tubattaha Ranger Station in Palawan, Rehabilitation of Cordova Mangrove Center in Cebu, and Rehabilitation of Del Carmen Mangrove Propagation and Information Center in Surigao Del Norte. Projects set to commence in 2024 include the Support of Marine Conservation and Livelihood of Local Fish Wardens, Repair of Del Carmen Women’s Livelihood Center, support in the replacement of the Loboc Youth Ambassadors Transport Service in Bohol, support to the protection of the Sab-a Basin Peatland forest, as well as livelihood rebuilding, disaster risk reduction training, and medical mission support for displaced communities in Leyte, and the Rehabilitation of Balaring Mangrove Eco-Park, as well as support to Fruit and Vegetable Production for farmers in the municipality of Kabankalan, both in Negros Occidental.

In the coming months of 2024, MPIF will roll out these post-Odette recovery programs, underscoring the MVP Group’s unwavering commitment to disaster resilience, community assistance, and the overall development of Filipinos, especially during challenging times.