State-owned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) recently launched a series of relief missions to assist hundreds of individuals and families across the country.

Last Feb. 1, the state gaming firm distributed over 400 food and non-food relief packs to assist hundreds of fire victims in Pandacan, Manila. 

Beneficiaries were left homeless following a fire that occurred more than two weeks ago in a residential area on West Zamora street, displacing mostly indigent residents from three barangays. 

These individuals are currently being temporarily housed in a nearby evacuation facility.

Prior to this, Pagcor also uplifted the spirits of women survivors of World War II in Candaba, Pampanga, by providing 18 wheelchairs and gift baskets to members of an organization called "Malaya Lolas”.

During the event, octogenarian Lola Pilar, who had experienced the atrocities of the Japanese occupation, expressed her gratitude and emotions through a song, stating that the gift-giving activity made them feel loved and cared for.

“Masayang masaya po kami dahil higit naming naramdaman na maraming mga taong nagpapahalaga at nagmamalasakit para sa kapakanan naming mga lola na nagdusa nang husto noong panahon ng digmaan,” she said.

[We are very happy because we felt that many people value and care for the welfare of us grandmothers who suffered greatly during the time of war.]

The event was held in a private residence in Barangay Mapaniqui in Candaba town and was witnessed by representatives from the local government unit.

Last Jan. 29, Pagcor also provided financial assistance to victims of a deadly bombing incident at the gymnasium of the Mindanao State University in Marawi City last December 23 while the victims were hearing Mass.

The agency provided P50,000 each to the families of four individuals who died in the attack while seven survivors also received a cash aid of P30,000 each.