Camarines Sur, Philippines — The Faculty Association of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (FAD) and University Non-Teaching Association (UNTA) chose to forego their annual Christmas celebrations this year to support 361 families affected by typhoon Kristine in the five barangays in Haring, Canaman, Camarines Sur.

Heeding the advisory of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. to observe austerity, simplicity, and sensitivity during the holiday season, the faculty members and non-teaching personnel redirected their savings to spearhead a donation drive for the victims of the calamity.

The officers of the two associations personally traveled for 21 hours to reach Camarines Sur to distribute financial assistance, handing out Php1,500 to each of the 361 families. The FAD and UNTA officers were received by the Local Government at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Parish Church, Haring, Canaman, Camarines Sur on December 19 to 21, 2024. The total donation of Php 541 500  was a meaningful gesture of hope and support, helping the victims address immediate needs such as food, medicine, and other essentials.

“This year, we set aside our usual Christmas parties and dedicate the resources to a greater cause. It’s our way of sharing the spirit of Bayanihan and showing that even in challenging times, we can still make a difference,” Hon. Mark Anthony C. Ochoa, Faculty Regent of DMMMSU, said.

“It was a sacrifice we were more than willing to make, knowing that it could ease the burden of our kababayans affected by the typhoon,” Dr. Valoree B. Salamanca, President of UNTA, added.

The beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude for the assistance. “This is more than financial aid — it is a gift of hope and humanity,” shared one recipient who lost their home in the typhoon.

In collaboration with the University Auxiliary and DRRM Offices, FAD’s and UNTA’s  selfless act of delivering help to Camarines Sur, despite its distance, underscores their commitment to service, not only within the university but also in the broader community.

“This gesture of both the faculty and nonteaching associations serves as a reminder that the true essence of the holiday season lies in giving and caring for those in need,” Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. said who also extended his full support of the project.“Our initiative hopes to inspire more institutions and individuals to extend their resources to disaster-affected communities, proving that collective action and sacrifice can create meaningful change,” he concluded. (By Ayu)