Hanunuo-Mangyan people affected by drought in Oriental Mindoro receive help from GMA Kapuso Foundation

Hanunuo-Mangyan residents from Barangay Cambunang in Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro were among those who were greatly affected by the dry season.

According to “24 Oras,” Wednesday, their crops, which are their source of livelihood, are affected by the drought.

“Dun sa sagingan namin, walang-wala talaga ikaw makukuha kahit ni isa man lang. Mismong puso nga ng saging dun na lang natutuyo sa taas,” said one of the residents, Emilia Cabal.

The crops that they can no longer sell are what they serve on their table.

“Saging na maliliit o kung may makain pa na kaunting balinghoy medyo hindi sira. Baka ma-over gutom ay magkaroon kami ng sakit katulad pa namin na walang clinic, walang doctor,” Emilia said.

Meanwhile, Aileen Radam has to go to the town carrying her bananas and cassavas just so she can sell them.

“Mahirap po ma’am, pero ngayon lang talaga nagkaganito dati ay hindi naman ganoon dahil may tanim pa kami eh ngayon wala na talaga,” she said.

To help, GMA Kapuso Foundation delivered food packs, hygiene kits, and vitamins for the residents.

“Napakalaki ang naiambag ng GMA Kapuso Foundation para maibsan nang kaunti ‘yung kanilang nararamdaman na paghihirap dito sa bayan ng Bulalacao,” LTC. Antonio O. Yago INF (GSC) PA said.

“Masaya po kami ngayon kahit mahirap ay dumating naman ang Kapuso. Salamat sa Panginoon,” Emilia said.

For those who want to take part in GMA Kapuso Foundation’s initiatives, you may send your donations through bank deposits, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Shopee, PayMaya, Zalora, MegaMart, Globe Rewards, Metrobank credit card, and Lazada.

For more information, visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website.

—Carby Basina/MGP, GMA Integrated News