Works of Mercy in the Wake of Typhoon Tino

WHERE DO WE BEGIN?

With the massive devastation in Cebu, we asked ourselves — where and how can we start helping?

Moved by faith and love, HSCASM has decided to begin with those nearest to us — our members, their families, and our street friends who have long been part of our mission in Cebu.

Our HSCASM -Cebu Youth and family members of our couple Coordinator - Bing and Elma Bustamante Broce, have begun preparing relief goods. Here's their account of what they witnessed during their outreach. "The streets of Cebu still bear the scars of the storm — fallen branches, flooded corners, and families trying to rebuild what little they have. Amid the ruins, we met mothers holding their children close, fathers searching for dry ground, and young ones smiling despite the cold and hunger.

Today, HSCASM walked those same streets carrying simple food packs — rice, canned goods, noodles, and toiletries. It wasn’t much, but it was love made visible. Each pack handed, each “salamat kaayo,” was a reminder that mercy is not just felt, it is shared.

As we offered prayers and food, we also listened — to stories of loss, courage, and hope. These are the faces of resilience. They remind us that in every storm, Christ is present — in the giver, the receiver, and the act of giving itself.

To our dear HSCASM community, both here in Cebu and in Australia — our family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generosity.

Because of your support, we were able to extend help to around 200–250 families in Talisay, one of the areas that suffered severe flooding.

Many homes were submerged, and although the houses may still appear standing, everything inside was washed away. Families are now trying to rebuild from nothing.

We also prepared another set of packs for families here in Cebu City, especially those living on the streets.

In this calamity, we realized that everyone is affected — but in different ways and to different degrees.

Cebu City may not have been as heavily damaged, which is why we chose to go to the barangays and communities that were most affected, where we could extend help immediately.

We also made this decision because some provinces had security and safety restrictions, and we wanted to ensure that we could deliver the aid directly, safely, and personally.

Last week, we were not able to reach Liloan, which was severely affected due to high water levels, but we are scheduled to extend help this weekend, God willing.

Last weekend, we reached Deca Homes Talisay (Phases 1, 2, and 3) and Padre Pio Village, which are beside the riverbanks and the sea. There, we saw firsthand the weight of loss, the exhaustion, and the resilience of the people.

As a community, we believe that love is everywhere.

In times of disaster, we help where help is needed most.

We are deeply grateful to be part of this mission — a mission rooted in compassion, service, and faith.

Thank you, HSCASM family, for being instruments of love, generosity, and compassion.

To God be the glory!"

Bing-Elma Broce & Family

HSCASM-Cebu (Philippines)

 “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40