The Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC) relief team recently completed a challenging two-day mission to Northern Cebu, distributing essential goods to communities still reeling from the devastating magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck Bogo City on Sept. 30, 2025.
Setting off from Cebu City at 3 a.m. for two consecutive days, the team targeted churches in the heavily affected areas of Daanbantayan, Medellin, and San Remigio.
The two-day journey painted a devastating picture of the region. Team members witnessed cracked and damaged roads, houses reduced to rubble, and survivors sheltering in make-shift tents along highways and on their lawns.
Beyond the physical damage, they heard deeply moving stories of loss—loved ones gone, homes destroyed, and livelihoods halted after local companies ceased operation.
This destruction was compounded by the psychological toll of continuous aftershocks, culminating in another magnitude 6.0 tremor that struck the North just days later, on Oct. 13.
Addressing the affected communities, Pastor Norberto Pamisa, CPUC Adventist Community Services director, said, “What we share will not relieve you of your burdens and financial needs for rebuilding. But what we want you to know is that you are in our thoughts—in the hearts of our donors who share their blessings with us.”
On the second day of the mission, Lirio Dufala, CEO of the KRIS Foundation, joined the group to witness the damage and destruction firsthand. She actively participated in distribution efforts, handing out supplies to churches and people on the highways. Additionally, she provided personal comfort by distributing gifts to children and clothes to parents.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Adventist Community Services of the Central Philippine Union Conference in delivering relief to earthquake survivors. Distributing food and supplies, and simply being present with those living in tents, was a humbling experience,” Dufala said.
She expressed that looking people in the eye and letting them know they are not forgotten meant more than anything. “Thank you to Cambrian Park SDA Church and the KRIS Foundation in California. Your generous support made this long but meaningful day of service, from 3 a.m. to 9 p.m., possible. The smiles, despite the hardships, made it all worth it.”
Dufala and her husband are members of the Cambrian Park Seventh-day Adventist Church, from which church members shared part of her donation.
Concluding the report, Pastor Eliezer “Joer” Barlizo Jr., CPUC president, expressed profound gratitude to all the contributors, many of whom are overseas. “Your generosity is boundless,” Pastor Barlizo said. “Although many of you now live or work in different countries, your hearts remain with us. Your thoughtfulness is a true blessing to those affected.
“As facilitators of the distribution, you have shown us how to empower those in need to fight for their survival by offering a part of ourselves through our presence and resources.”
Lyn Lucero / CPUC Communication Department