By Mikee Natinga Norico

CPU Psych Soc and partners standing strong together for Brgy. Ma. Christina fire victims.

Central Philippine University (CPU) Psychological Society, along with partner organizations, held their project “Bulig sa Pumuluyo” last July 7, 2024. The said project aimed to deliver donations to Brgy. Ma. Christina residents in Jaro, Iloilo City who were affected by a recent fire incident.

According to Lois Ituriaga Senegocio, the project head, around 19 households benefited from the initiative. The fire caused significant damage, leaving many families without shelter and belongings.

“Upon inquiring with the Brgy. officials, they mentioned an estimate number of 19 houses affected 15 totally damaged and 4 partially damaged from the fire. There weren’t any reported mortalities [thankfully], but the complete loss of shelter felt like the victims were going to start from the ground up. There was not only a loss of shelter and belongings but a loss of security and will,” she said.

Project Bulig sa Pumuluyo was a quick response effort. The CPU Psychological Society started gathering donations on July 1st and partnered with other CPU organizations such as APO Zeta Omicron Chapter, CPU MIDAS, CPU Female Society, CPU CAS Peer Facilitators, Koalisyon, and CPU Communication Circle to maximize their reach. While the project focused on accumulating donations, Senegocio said they are open to providing further assistance in the future, such as psychological first aid.

The collaboration among CPU organizations was crucial to the project’s success. Partner representatives actively promoted the initiative and helped with the turnover of donations to the barangay hall.

The CPU Psychological Society is committed to continuing its community service endeavors. Senegocio shared that they learned valuable lessons from Project Bulig sa Pumuluyo, including the importance of speed, resourcefulness, and adaptability in disaster response initiatives. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing the needs and comfort of the beneficiaries and fostering a spirit of community collaboration.

“In disaster response, time is of utmost importance. Be considerate of what your beneficiaries need and be open to altering your plans and schedule to best accommodate them. Their comfort is of utmost priority. And in every initiative (not just in disaster relief) things do not always go your way; you must learn to not dwell on disappointment but focusing on the best solution to alleviate the issue. And especially the sense of buliganay. In the end, Bulig sa Pumuluyo is an initiative nga naghalin sa pagbuliganay para makabulig,” Senegocio said.

This project exemplifies the compassion and commitment of the CPU Psychological Society and its partner organizations in helping those in need during times of crisis.