In a significant humanitarian response, RAFI Microfinance has launched a wide-reaching relief effort, offering free essential services to individuals and families impacted by the recent series of natural calamities in the Visayas region. This initiative extends support to both its existing clients and non-clients alike, recognizing the widespread devastation caused by the earthquake and typhoon.
Comprehensive Aid for Hard-Hit Communities
The relief operations, conducted under the banner of the Kaagapay Outreach program, provided a crucial lifeline to affected residents. Teams on the ground distributed vital assistance including free medical consultations, essential medicines, vitamins, and psychological first aid. The goal was to address both immediate physical health concerns and the often-overlooked mental trauma following such disasters.
The outreach was strategically carried out from December 1 to 5, 2025. In Cebu province, services reached numerous municipalities and cities that suffered severe damage. The extensive list of covered areas includes:
- Northern Cebu: Daan Bantayan, Medellin, San Remegio, Bogo, Tabogon, Borbon, Compostela
- Central Cebu: Camotes Islands, Danao City, Liloan, Consolacion, Mandaue City, Cebu City
- Western & Southern Cebu: Tuburan, Balamban, Lutupan, Toledo City, Talisay City
Simultaneous Efforts in Negros Island
Parallel operations were conducted in Negros Island, which also faced the fury of the recent typhoon. The Kaagapay Outreach teams were active in key localities within Negros Occidental, such as La Carlota, La Castellana, and Calatrava. In Negros Oriental, the city of Canlaon also received much-needed support from the program.
This disaster response builds upon a strong track record. Earlier in 2025, the Kaagapay Outreach program demonstrated its capacity by serving nearly 12,000 beneficiaries across 12 different areas in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. That earlier phase of the program offered an even broader suite of services, encompassing mental health support, dental and optical care, laboratory services, linkages to government assistance, and business support services. These efforts were made possible through collaborations with various public and private sector organizations.
A Mission of Holistic Support Continues
RAFI Microfinance, which operates as a key program under the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Incorporated (RAFI), remains steadfast in its core mission. The organization is dedicated to uplifting microentrepreneurs and their families through a two-pronged approach: providing direct support for their business ventures and offering access to holistic programs and services that improve overall family well-being. This latest outreach in the wake of natural disasters underscores its commitment to standing with communities not just in times of business growth, but more importantly, in times of profound need and recovery.
