Following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake and over a thousand aftershocks that struck Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur on December 2023, a significant number of members of the community have expressed experiencing emotional distress after our assessment, as the traumatic event has left them with feelings of fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and grief.

Recognizing the necessity for intervention, ADRA Philippines invited volunteers from Hinatuan SDA Church and Bislig South Youth to undergo training in Psychological First Aid (PFA) and subsequently offered PFA assistance to children and vulnerable adults (the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with special needs) on Mawes Island, Tidman, Hinatuan.

On January 16, 2024, thanks to our dedicated and mission-driven volunteers, the children experienced a day filled with enjoyable activities, including singing, storytelling, games, and art therapy. Furthermore, in the afternoon, the adults engaged in meaningful discussions facilitated by the principles of Psychological First Aid (PFA). PFA was extended to the educators at Balbuena Integrated School, and they expressed gratitude for the support rendered to both them and their students. They recognized and appreciated the lasting impact of emphatic listening to their experiences which fostered a more positive atmosphere, heightened feelings of support, a strengthened sense of belonging, and instilled hope for a better tomorrow!

Along with PFA, 1,005 families all over the municipality of Hinatuan received 3,000 pesos each to help them rebuild and repair their homes on January 14, 2024.

We would like to thank everyone who supports ADRA all over the world. Through you, we can serve humanity in more ways than one! We also thank the leaders of the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference, Southeastern Philippine Union Mission, Southeastern Caraga Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and Hope Channel SCM for capturing and sealing into our memories what people can do when we serve others, especially beyond our comfort zones!