Despite huge losses incurred from the pandemic, travel agents are mobilizing a centralized fund drive to aid typhoon-hit victims in Bicol, Cagayan Valley, and the National Capital Region.
Memorandum Circular 2020-138 released by the Philippine Travel Agencies Association on Nov. 14 said they are doing their share to assist “in every possible way” through coordination with the various local government units (LGUs) and barangays to assess where their assistance can be of help “without any fanfare.”
PTAA president Ritchie Tuaño also said the group will release an amount from the unutilized budget from his office to augment the much needed help.
“The money collected will be used to purchase relief goods in the form of food, hygiene kits, and other essential items," he added, citing that they are also mobilizing help from Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
Subsequent to the call to help victims of typhoon “Rolly” last Nov. 5, the PTAA also received donations from its member travel agents. The collected amount, together with the funds coming from the PTAA Foundation, were distributed through three different channels in Naga City, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes, with the aim to also support local community tour guides affected by the powerful typhoon.
“We would like to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the generosity of the members who donated amidst this difficult time,” Tuaño said.
The association was also able to arrange two possible air transport, a helicopter and a military plane, to send in-kind donations in flooded Cagayan Valley.