The Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA), Malaysia Chapter, under the guidance of Venerable Hsinbao, Head Abbot of Fo Guang Shan Monastery and the Chairperson of BLIA World Headquarters, together with the Sin Chew Foundation Malaysia, has contributed 3.022 metric tonnes of humanitarian relief items to support families affected by the recent earthquake on Balut Island, Sarangani, Davao Occidental.
The delivery was facilitated by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) through its cargo subsidiary, MASkargo, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to supporting humanitarian relief efforts and regional communities in times of need.
The humanitarian assistance was undertaken in collaboration with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) under the supervision of Arch. Sherilla Porza-Sawah, Regional Director for Region XI, with the support of the Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City. This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to providing timely assistance to those in need.
The relief consignment comprises essential food items, including rice, water bottles, and instant noodles, as well as premium blankets and camping tents to help meet the immediate needs of families displaced by the disaster. The assistance is expected to benefit approximately 400 families on Balut Island and 200 families affected by the fire in Brgy. Ilang, Davao City.
The humanitarian effort underscores the longstanding spirit of friendship and solidarity between the peoples of Malaysia and the Philippines. It also highlights the important role played by civil society organizations, charitable foundations, and government partners in responding collectively to humanitarian emergencies.
Venerable Hsinbao, Head Abbot of Fo Guang Shan Monastery and the Chairperson of BLIA World Headquarters said, “The humanitarian relief effort for the earthquake in the Philippines was a collaborative disaster relief operations by the BLIA World Headquarters, the BLIA Malaysia, Fo Guang Shan Philippines, and the BLIA Philippines Association. Most Venerable Hsin Bao stated that “natural disasters are ruthless, but humanity is filled with love”. This has always been the guiding spirit behind the BLIA’s international humanitarian relief initiatives.
He hopes that this humanitarian care, which transcends national borders and religious boundaries, would help disaster victims to ride through these difficult times, support them in rebuilding their homes, and enable a swift return to normal life. He prays for everyone’s safety and well-being.
Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Office of Malaysia Aviation Group, said, ““We are privileged to support this humanitarian initiative by leveraging our cargo capabilities to help ensure essential aid reaches affected communities in a timely manner. In moments like these, the ability to extend support beyond borders becomes especially meaningful, and we hope this contribution provides some relief and comfort to families as they begin the process of recovery.
Arch. Sherrila Porza-Sawah, Regional Director for Region XI, said, “On behalf of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Davao, I extend my sincere gratitude for the generous relief assistance provided by BLIA, Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Malaysia, and Sin Chew Foundation, through the Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City, led by Consul General Deddy Faisal Ahmad Bin Salleh. I also express my heartfelt thanks to the Malaysia Aviation Group for their benevolent and invaluable logistical support. This proactive support exemplifies interfaith harmony and underscores that compassion transcends boundaries of faith and nationality. Asthe region navigates a challenging recovery period, the Muslim Filipino community recognizes the invaluable contributions of volunteers and diplomats whose forthcoming efforts will provide much-needed hope, safety, and comfort to the Davao Region.”
Consul General Deddy Faisal Bin Ahmad Salleh said: “This humanitarian initiative reflects the enduring partnership between Malaysia and the Philippines and our shared commitment to humanitarian cooperation and regional solidarity. It demonstrates how collaboration between governments and civil society can deliver timely assistance, strengthen community resilience and further reinforce the longstanding friendship between our two nations.”
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) under the leadership of Secretary Sabuddin N. Abdurahim expresses its sincerest appreciation to the BLIA Fo Guang Shan Malaysia Chapter, the Sin Chew Foundation Malaysia, Malaysia Aviation Group Berhad (MAG), the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, and the Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City for their generosity, close cooperation and unwavering commitment to alleviating the suffering of affected communities.
