Families in Batangas begin rebuilding lives after devastation left by 'Kristine'

MANILA -- Edwin Mendoza, a rescuer from Balete, Batangas, is still mourning the loss of seven family members to Typhoon Kristine last October. 

In the tragic flood, he lost his father, three siblings, a brother-in-law, and two nephews. 

Edwin was out rescuing residents during the deadly storm, yet despite his efforts, he could not save his own family. 

“Masakit po na nailigtas ko ating mga kababayan pero pamilya ko di ko nailigtas,” he said. 

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Similarly, Reynaldo Dejucos shared that he was tending to their fish cages by the lake when the typhoon struck. He checked on his family twice, ensuring they were safe, but on his third visit, it was too late—a landslide had buried his home along with his loved ones. 

“Pag balik ko naroon sila galing pa po ako laot, pangalawa balik ko andun pa po sila, pangatlong balik ko wala na po natabunan na po sila,” he recalled. 

Edwin and Reynaldo were among the 61 families who received financial aid from the government and a private foundation on Sunday in Talisay, Batangas. 

In response to the devastation wrought by Typhoon Kristine, BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive, distributed ₱37 million in aid to affected families. 

With over 148 confirmed casualties across the country, each bereaved family received ₱250,000—a gesture of support for their journey to rebuild. The initial phase of this initiative reached 61 families at a turnover ceremony held on November 10, at Talisay New Municipal Grounds in Batangas. 

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First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, Talisay Mayor Nestor Natanauan, DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco, and BingoPlus Foundation COO Celeste Jovenir joined local leaders and community members to personally hand over the financial assistance. 

Typhoon Kristine, one of the most destructive storms of the year, left communities in Batangas devastated, with severe flooding and landslides claiming lives and homes. Talisay, especially impacted by landslides, became a focal point for the Foundation’s relief efforts as the entire province was declared in a state of calamity.