Shortly after Typhoon Haiyan caused unspeakable damage to the Visayas, Manny O was one of the first to pledge his support to the rebuilding efforts of Gawad Kalinga. Back then, Manny Osmena remarked:
“To see and realize that we share the same vision and direction in our lives, it is just incredible! Tony and I share the same philosophy – for a business to be sustainable, everybody has to progress – the company, the community and the people. We are both committed to be involved in helping the community while we do our respective businesses. After this ‘Yolanda Rebuild Program,’ we will be looking for a long-term and a sustainable solution in helping each other do our part in rebuilding the nation.”
A year later, 40 families affected by Typhoon Yolanda were finally able to move into their new homes and start rebuilding their lives. Present in the turnover ceremony was Manny Osmena with some family and friends, GK Father and Founder Tony Meloto, Mayor Salvador dela Fuente of Madridejos and municipal councilors.
The ceremony was prepared by the beneficiaries with the help of the local government unit (LGU) of Madridejos where they shared in the salo-salo of mouth-watering seafood and fruits. It started with a speech from Manny Osmena, followed by some words from Tony Meloto.
“Today you are recipients of the love and care of God thru the family of Manny Osmeña. You have to return the favor by loving your family and each other in the community,” said Tony Meloto.
The Manny O. GK Village in Tugas, Madridejos is one of four Yolanda villages funded by Manny O. The other three villages are located in Alang-Alang (Leyte), Sagbayan (Bohol) and Hernani (Eastern Samar), which are all under construction. - Aldalin Orro, Gawad Kalinga 1/22/2015