14/04/2025
Cebu Institute of Medicine - Cebu Velez General Hospital
Extends Aid to Fire Victims in Barangay Paknaan
On the evening of March 23, 2025, a massive fire engulfed Zone Talong, Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City, affecting 173 households and displacing 271 families. The fire's rapid spread and the limited accessibility of the area posed significant challenges for firefighters. After reaching a fourth alarm, the blaze was successfully controlled by 11:00 PM. While no casualties were reported, the fire caused substantial property damage, leaving many families without shelter and essential belongings.
As Barangay Paknaan has been the adopted community of the Cebu Institute of Medicine - Community Medico - Social Services (CMSS) since 1957, the institution acted quickly to provide assistance. The following morning, the Community Medicine team of CIM CMSS visited the affected area to assess the extent of the damage and determine the victims' most urgent needs. Food, water, and clothing emerged as top priorities.
In response, a relief initiative was promptly launched, mobilizing student organizations from CIM and Velez College, along with other partner groups. A network of student leaders coordinated fundraising and donation drives. Within a short period, students, faculty, and donors contributed both monetary and in-kind donations, including canned goods, rice, water, and clothing.
By March 25, 2025, significant funds had been raised, enabling the organized distribution of relief goods the following day, March 26. The CIM CMSS team and volunteer students from CIM worked alongside barangay officials and local security personnel to ensure an efficient and orderly distribution process. Repacking efforts were meticulously handled to guarantee that all 271 families received aid, providing much-needed relief to the affected community.
Following the success of the initial relief operation, continued support efforts were launched as additional donations continued to pour in. A follow-up survey at the evacuation center identified cooking equipment as the most felt need. In response, the "Kaldero Project" was initiated, ensuring that each family received a cooking pot, enabling them to prepare meals as they worked toward recovery.
Through the collective efforts of Cebu Institute of Medicine Student Council (CIM-SC), CIM Alpha Mu Sigma Phi (CIM-AMSP), CIM Total Outreach for Community Health (CIM-TORCH), CIM Asian Medical Students’ Association (CIM-AMSA), Velez College, and Cebu Doctors University - Student Council (CDU-SC), CDU Community Outreach Research and Education (CDU CORE) and CDU Asian Medical Students’ Association (CDU-AMSA), additional funds were raised. By April 2, 2025, all 271 families received cooking pots. Distilled water was prioritized for children, while pillows were distributed to persons with disabilities. A raffle draw was also held to distribute sleeping mats and additional relief goods. To uplift spirits and provide encouragement, games and activities were organized for children and their families, making the event a truly memorable and heartwarming experience.
The overwhelming support from students, faculty, donors, and volunteers highlighted the power of unity, compassion, and community service. These relief efforts not only provided essential aid but also reaffirmed Cebu Institute of Medicine - Cebu Velez General Hospital’s steadfast commitment to serving communities in times of crisis. As recovery efforts continue, the institution remains dedicated to supporting those in need and fostering resilience among affected families.
