Earthquakes, floods, storms, and fires — these natural disasters are often unpredictable and beyond human control. They serve as constant reminders that no one is immune to life’s uncertainties, whether brought about by climate change or sudden shifts in weather conditions.

For Rolando Sabacajon, a 48-year-old resident of Purok San Vicente in Medina, Misamis Oriental, this reality hit home on August 4, when a fire destroyed a significant portion of their abode. A long-time member of the Asiapro Multi-Purpose Cooperative (AMPC) and a dedicated worker assigned to Axelum since 2008, Rolando is the sole breadwinner for his wife and two college-age children.

The family’s house, built from light materials, sustained damages. The kitchen and bedroom were burned, along with clothing and important documents. Despite the devastation, Rolando remained hopeful. He reported the incident to the Asiapro MPC-Medina office and sought assistance.

Through the Kaagapay Program of the Asiapro Foundation and the Cooperative Social Responsibility (CSR) of Asiapro MPC, Rolando and his family received that much needed shelter assistance.

The Medina local government unit (LGU) also contributed construction materials such as amakan and galvanized iron sheets. The AFI-CSR aid was used to purchase lumber and other basic household items, allowing the family to begin rebuilding.

“Our house was rebuilt. Thank you very much for your help,” Rolando said, expressing his gratitude to the cooperative and the LGU.

As of the third quarter of the year, the AFI has extended shelter assistance to two members affected by fire incidents, and supported 106 cooperative members whose homes were damaged by flooding caused by typhoons and monsoon rains.

The Kaagapay Program and similar initiatives demonstrate that Bawat Isa Mahalaga is not just a catch phrase but a principled rally cry to uplift the lives of cooperative members in need.

For further information on the Asiapro Foundation and its programs, please visit www.asiaprofoundation.org and Asiapro Foundation Inc. Facebook account.