The donation project was an initiative of the American Chamber of the Philippines Foundation (AmCham), in partnership with local government units, committed individuals, organizations, and its members. Quezon Power is an active member of AmCham and courses many of its outreach programs through its foundation.

Quezon Power’s Chuckie Rivera made arrangements for the transportation to Leyte from Manila of the 35 fiberglass boats and a pay-loader which was donated by Monark to the municipality of Tolosa. One of the fiberglass boats was also donated by Quezon Power.

As part of the turn-over ceremonies, Quezon Power Assistant Managing Director Pantipa Moolasart joined Office of the Presidential Assistant to the Rehabilitation and Recovery Sec. Panfilo Lacson in handing over the Certificates of Ownership to the fishermen-recipients of the boats.

Leyte Vice-Governor Carlo Loreto, Palo Mayor Matin Petilla, Tanuan Mayor Pelagio Tecson, Jr., and Talosa Mayor Erwin Ocana were also present in the turnover ceremonies. Vice-Governor Loreto, in his remarks, acknowledged the sponsors and individuals who made the program happen.

Fishermen who were chosen as beneficiaries for the project as well as local government officials were all smiles in receiving the donations.

After the destruction wrought by Typhoon Yolanda, the Province of Leyte can be compared to a phoenix – rising not from the ashes but from the devastating water that brought the area to its knees.

The thought that these donations can help the recipients and their families rebuild their dreams and restore their livelihood made the whole endeavor meaningful and worthwhile.

Much remains to be done as the whole province of Leyte continues to implement its recovery program, and it is a great privilege for Quezon Power to be a part of the province’s rebuilding effort.

Postscript:
Tacloban City, Leyte before the Typhoon Yolanda is considered as one of the most advance cities in Visayas region. It also contributes a great part in the history of the Philippines as Tacloban has been the temporary capital of the Commonwealth Government, led by US General Douglas MacArthur and Philippine President Sergio Osmeña, until the final liberation of the country at the conclusion of World War II.