IT&E donates $1K for PH typhoon victims

 IT&E, the CNMI’s number one wireless provider, expressed its support to the Filipino community by making a donation to a fundraising drive to benefit those who were affected by Typhoon Sendong in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities in Mindanao.

Norman Del Rosario, IT&E art director, presented the $1,000 check donation to the United Filipino Organization at their booth at the Garapan Street Market on Thursday.

“The Filipino community has played such a huge role in the development of our islands and this is just one way that we can help the community back home recover from the devastation wrought by the typhoon,” said Del Rosario.

Del Rosario recounted that the IT&E management was already planning on how to provide aid for the survivors of the typhoon-touted as one of the worst disasters to hit northern Mindanao.

“So when we heard of the relief drive spearheaded by the United Filipino Organization for Typhoon Sendong victims, IT&E thought that it was very timely and we decided to step up to the plate and donate to the cause,” he told Saipan Tribune.

Del Rosario believes that it is particularly essential to help the calamity survivors given that the unfortunate incident happened just days before Christmas.

UFO president Bong Malasarte, who accepted the check donation on behalf of the umbrella organization of some 30 Filipino groups, said in a separate interview that he appreciates IT&E’s positive response to their relief drive.

“IT&E has always been a supporter our programs and activities of UFO,” said Malasarte. “We were very pleased that we have their support in providing assistance to our kababayans in Mindanao.”

Malasarte is optimistic that IT&E’s donation will encourage other groups and individuals to share whatever amount they can to somehow bring back the holiday spirit to the disaster victims.

He said their fundraising efforts, which began on Dec. 22, has so far collected some $1,700 from members of the Filipino community and the general public.

Those who want to donate can go to the Sabalu Market in Susupe today, Dec. 24, from 8am to noon and at the Filcom Pavilion in Susupe on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 8am to 4pm.

Malasarte disclosed that they are coordinating with the Philippine Consulate General office so they can endorse whatever amount they collect to the proper authorities. He said they have been trying to coordinate with the Philippine Red Cross but have yet to hear from them.

“I hope the Filipinos in the CNMI would find it in their hearts to share whatever amount they can to the victims. Let us all help the people of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities in this season of giving,” Malasarte.