Microsoft opens window of hope to Ondoy victims

Microsoft opens window of hope to Ondoy victims; help from individuals, church groups start to pour

Microsoft Philippines teamed up with the Visayan Forum Foundation, Inc. and parent leaders from the Bantay Bata sa Komunidad in an effort to start rebuilding the lives of victims of Typhoon Ondoy in Pandacan, Manila. 

Microsoft donated relief goods for distribution to affected areas in Paco, Pandacan, Isla Puting Bato, and communities surrounding the Manila Harbor in Manila.  The donated goods will also benefit victims from Ondoy Victims from Pasig, Quezon City, and Balayan, Batangas. 

Microsoft staff led by no less than General Manager John Bessey took part in a clean-up drive last October 5, 2009 centered on Bagong Barangay Activity Center in Barangay 842 in Pandacan.  Pandacan is home to a Community Technology Learning Center (CTLC) of the stepUP program of Microsoft, BBK, and Visayan Forum, an initiative that seeks to protect young people against trafficking by providing them with specialized Information Technology, life skills training, 

The clean-up drive is the first in a series of activities that aims to jumspstart the rebuilding process in worst-hit communities.  Ondoy left in its wake mountains of garbage and mud from overflowed creeks, canals, and rivers near Pandacan.  These posed health problems to residents, especially children who make up almost 60% of the area's population. 

Microsoft donated computers for the CTLCs to replace the units that were destroyed during the height of Typhoon Ondoy.  These efforts will ensure that the stepUP program will be able to start classes once the supply of electricity normalize.

"We are happy that Microsoft Philippines had the foresight to go beyond relief," said Ma. Cecilia Oebanda, President of the Visayan Forum.  "Microsoft, through the stepUP program, is a vital ally in our fight against trafficking.  Now, they are helping us make sure that our gains in terms of preventing trafficking and child abuse will not be washed out by the devastation of Typhoon Ondoy."

Meanwhile, help has also poured in from institutions and individuals.  The Social Action Center of the De La Salle University - Zobel donated relief goods and medical items.  Church groups such as the UCCP Christ to the Philippines Life of Praise have also pitched in.  Also inspiring are the donations coming from individuals who came to know about the Visayan Forum Relief and Rehabilitation Program through social networking sites such as Facebook and Friendster.  Ms. Bethany Conde, Jane Kuda, and Dra. Jolette Nicdao were among the first to respond to the call for help.