The aftermath of severe tropical storm Kristine left Batangas reeling, with the province reporting the highest number of fatalities due to landslides and drowning. Declared under a state of calamity, Batangas experienced widespread devastation, particularly in the western areas near Taal Lake, following the storm's heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding, landslides, and lahar flows on October 24, 2024.
In response, Bangko Kabayan (BK) promptly mobilized its HR, CSRS, and GSAD teams to provide immediate assistance to affected employees. Essential supplies, including water, food packs, and basic necessities, were distributed on October 25, 26, and 30, 2024. A donation drive held from October 29–30, 2024, gathered additional items such as clothing and canned goods, which were delivered to the most severely impacted branches in Agoncillo, Calaca, and Lemery on October 30, 2024. To address emotional well-being, two HR staff members, both Psychology graduates, conducted initial Psychological First Aid sessions to support employees dealing with post-traumatic stress.
Recognizing the broader emotional and psychological needs of both employees and clients, BK partnered with Megan Foundation, Inc. to launch Buhay Ang Pag-asa, a series of half-day, interactive sessions designed to address the emotional, mental, psychological, and spiritual recovery of calamity survivors. These sessions aimed to provide a safe space for participants to process their experiences, identify coping strategies, and build resilience for long-term stability.
The inaugural session was held under the Bangon Kabayan Project by Talisay Branch on November 17, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Leonida's Exclusive Resort in Brgy. Banga, Talisay, Batangas. Beneficiaries included 10 Bukas Palad Laurel scholars and their parents, alongside 16 BK employees and clients from Tanauan, Talisay, and Laurel.
The second session, organized by Lemery Branch, took place on December 1, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 NN at the Lemery Branch Lobby, Lemery, Batangas. This session catered to 17 Bukas Palad Agoncillo scholars and parents, as well as 19 BK employees and clients from Calaca, Agoncillo, and Lemery.
The sessions were facilitated by resource persons Mimo Perez and Aubrey Albo-Perez, who guided participants in acknowledging and processing their traumatic experiences. Through these initiatives, BK demonstrated its commitment to holistic disaster response, extending support not only to its employees but also to its clients and the broader community.
Bangko Kabayan’s Bangon Kabayan Project continues to underscore its dedication to fostering resilience, recovery, and hope among those affected by calamities, embodying the spirit of "Buhay ang Pag-asa."
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