CHMSU Launches Aid Drive for Kanlaon Victims

BACOLOD CITY – Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) has launched “CHMSUyanihan Operasyon Kanlaon (OK)” to assist communities affected by the recent Mt. Kanlaon eruption.

In partnership with Caritas Bacolod Social Action Foundation, Inc. and Art Relief Mobile Kitchen (ARMK), donation booths have been set up at CHMSU’s four campuses: Alijis, Binalbagan, Fortune Towne, and Talisay. The booths welcome cash and in-kind donations from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and stakeholders.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Center for Internationalization and External Relations (CIER) and the Federation of CHMSU University Student Government.

CIER Director Rhoderick Samonte said CHMSU has mobilized its volunteers for the donation drive. The university is encouraging donors to contribute drinking water in gallon containers, face masks (preferably N95), vitamins, over-the-counter medicines, non-perishable food items, and cash.

Cash donations can be sent directly to the Federation of CHMSU University Student Government via GCash at 0927-971-0303 or to the Caritas Bacolod Social Action Foundation, Inc. Queenbank account number 002-02-00155-5.

“December is the month of thanksgiving, kindness, and fellowship. We call on all students, employees, alumni, partners, and stakeholders to join us in extending help to Negrosanons displaced and affected by the Mt. Kanlaon eruption,” Samonte said.

Federation President Dermelyn Irish Azucena shared that student volunteers have started a room-to-room campaign to encourage donations and recruit more volunteers.

The donations will be turned over as soon as possible, Samonte added. Cash contributions will be used to purchase ingredients for ARMK’s pop-up kitchen, which will serve hot meals to evacuees.

The CHMSUyanihan OK donation drive runs until Dec. 20, 2024.