When the 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck Cebu, fear gripped many communities. While some families were spared from major losses, others faced immediate hardship. In times like these, leadership and compassion make all the difference.
The relief initiative was sparked by a personal call to action from the Worshipful Master of Mactan Hiram Lodge No. 21, Brother Ramon Angeles III, together with his wife Caroline. Moved by the devastation they saw and guided by a shared conviction to help, they began organizing relief efforts from their own household. They reached out to family, friends, and partners, and the response was overwhelming.
Turning Compassion into Action
Through the generosity of supporters and the helping hands of brethren and friends, the initiative was able to distribute:
- 237 ready-to-eat food packs
- 913 liters of water
- 25 sheets of trapal (tarpaulin sheets for temporary shelter)
These supplies reached three affected areas:
- Tambongon, San Remigio
- Sitio Mandado, Hagnaya, San Remigio
- Sitio Sambag, Dakit, Bogo
Mactan Hiram Lodge’s Contribution
The Grand Lodge of Modern Mixed Masons – Mactan Hiram Lodge No. 21 stood in support of this effort, reflecting the Masonic values of charity, brotherhood, and relief to those in distress. What began as a family initiative became a larger mission of service, strengthened by the Lodge and extended Masonic family.
A Collective Mission of Service
This endeavor would not have been possible without the collaboration of friends, families, and partner organizations such as Care and Protect Rehab Inc., USA, and Focolare Philippines: Visayas Zonetta. The generosity of countless individuals transformed an idea into action, proving that communities can rise stronger when guided by compassion and unity.
Living the Masonic Light
For Worshipful Master Ramon Angeles III, his wife Caroline, and the brethren of Mactan Hiram Lodge No. 21, the earthquake relief initiative was more than just charity—it was a living expression of the Masonic duty to extend relief. Through leadership, action, and shared commitment, they brought hope to families in need and reaffirmed Freemasonry’s enduring mission of service to humanity.