11/10/2025
๐๐ฎ๐ญ๐ข๐ฌ๐ฆ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ-๐๐ฎ๐๐ค๐ ๐๐ฌ๐ฒ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐
๐ข๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฏ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐ข๐ง ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ๐ง ๐๐๐๐ฎ
When the 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck the northern part of Cebu, it did more than leave cracks on walls and roads, it left invisible fractures in the hearts of those who experienced it.
The trembling may have lasted only for seconds but the frequent aftershocks it carried instilled fear and uncertainty that continues to echo long after the ground stilled.
In the aftermath of disasters, the spotlight often shines on physical recovery such as clearing debris, repairing damage, and restoring power. Yet, for individuals who struggle silently with trauma or mental strain, where can they turn when psychological care is often overlooked?
Recently, Cebu Technological University (CTU) launched a three-day Psychological First Aid (PFA) intervention starting on October 8 until October 10, 2025, for students and employees in CTU-Daanbantayan campus and nearby extensions in San Remigio and Tabogon, areas most affected by the earthquake. CTU-Danao was also included in the initiative to ensure that no one in the northern part of Cebu was left behind.
Autism Safe joined this initiative as one of CTUโs external partners, extending its assistance through small but meaningful acts of care. The organization prepared loot bags filled with snacks for the participants, containing simple tokens meant to bring comfort and relief during the sessions. It was a gesture that carried more than food but warmth, and solidarity.
Founded to bridge the gap between special education and pre-vocational training for persons with autism and other special needs, Autism Safe has always stood for inclusion and support. But in times of crisis, its mission extends far beyond its usual programs, lending a hand to those who are in need of assistance regardless of their status or condition in life.
In a world where not everyone gets an equal chance to face lifeโs calamities, Autism Safe reminds us that compassion can be one of the strongest foundations to rebuild hope. Whether through education, livelihood training, or simple acts of giving, the organization continues to influence a culture of empathy one step at a time.
Written by Aubrey Pilapil
