Supporting education and rebuilding efforts, the foundation addresses the devastation caused by recent typhoons through its unwavering commitment to hope and resilience.
MAKATI, Philippines — In November 2024, six typhoons—Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito—entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in just one month, causing widespread devastation. This has resulted in immense damage across the country, affecting family shelters, educational facilities, and other essentials that the Filipino people need–especially those who are in vulnerable communities. According to an article by ReliefWeb on November 15, 2024, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that 2.4 million families—a total of 9 million Filipino people—were affected by the consecutive typhoons hitting our country.
This is the first time after a long time that multiple typhoons have consecutively ravaged the country. According to an article by ABS-CBN News, Joey Figuracion, a PAGASA weather specialist, 1983 and 2008 were the last years this kind of phenomenon happened.
The Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation (YBH)–a non-profit organization, whose main programs are educational initiatives for children in remote coastal areas–was also affected by the recent typhoons. The foundation has reported that some of their YBH adopted communities have lost their homes completely, their yellow boats and the Yellow School of Hope in Caramoan were also damaged. Though disheartening, the foundation looks towards healing.
The Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation understands the pain and devastation that recent typhoons have brought and has made plans to organize a fundraising program this coming December, hoping to give hope and healing to the affected communities.
“This fundraising effort goes beyond building boats or classrooms—it’s about restoring hope in communities that need it the most. At the heart of this campaign is the spirit of Bayanihan, where individuals come together to make the impossible, possible. Through this collective effort, we’re showing these kids and their families that they are not forgotten, and that together, we can paddle them toward a brighter future.” Says Dr. Anton Mari H. Lim, YBH President, CEO, and Co-Founder.
This reflects the steadfast dedication to improving the lives of people in the Philippines. Their ongoing support is rooted in a deep sense of care and understanding and willingness to adapt their initiatives to meet the changing needs of communities. Their efforts go beyond simply providing aid; they are committed to making a lasting impact by addressing both immediate challenges and long-term needs with compassion and thoughtfulness.
The Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation is a volunteer-driven non-profit organization in the Philippines that aims to provide access to education for children in remote and poverty-stricken areas by providing boats to reach their schools. Composed of more than 300 Hope Paddlers and countless volunteers willing to devote their time and effort whenever needed. They believe in accomplishing their mission by reigniting the characteristics of “Bayanihan” in every Filipino while carrying their tagline of “Ensuring no Filipino kid is left behind.”
For inquiries or clarifications about the campaign, you may reach out to @YellowBoatPH on social media platforms or email at chief.hopepaddler@yellowboat.org.
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About the Writers:
John Clite Apolinar, a 3rd year Bachelor in Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Mesa, Manila.
Bernadette Sy, is in her junior year as a Bachelor in Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Mesa, Manila.
John Richmond Bueno is in his junior year as a Bachelor in Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Mesa, Manila.
Hannahallia Marcelino, is in her junior year as a Bachelor in Advertising and Public Relations (BAPR) student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Mesa, Manila.
