Two months after the Mindanao earthquake, fishermen in Purok Sarif Mucsin, General Santos City, are getting a chance to rebuild their livelihoods.
Operation Blessing recently turned over 11 new boats to fishermen whose own boats were damaged by the earthquake. The assistance is intended to help them return to the sea, resume fishing, and once again provide for their families.
For communities recovering from disasters, rebuilding often goes beyond repairing homes and replacing damaged belongings. Livelihoods also need to be restored so families can regain their ability to earn and move forward.
For the fishermen who received the boats, the new vessels represent more than a means of getting from shore to sea. They are tools that can help them return to work and regain a measure of stability after the disruption caused by the earthquake.
The turnover was made possible through the support of Operation Blessing’s donors and partners. EJ De Perio of Reverb Worship PH also joined the ceremony and performed an inspirational song for the beneficiaries.
Operation Blessing said the continuing support reflects the importance of helping communities recover beyond the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
Two months on, the assistance shows that disaster recovery can continue long after the initial response. With the right support, families can begin rebuilding not only what they lost, but also the livelihoods that allow them to move forward.
