Duyog Ramadhan Brings Youth-Led Solidarity to Flood-Affected Families in Iligan

Iligan City, 18 February 2026 — On the opening days of the holy month of Ramadhan, youth volunteers and partner organizations carried out the first wave of Duyog Ramadhan, delivering relief assistance to families affected by Tropical Storm Basyang in Barangay Tipanoy and Barangay Puga-an.

(Residents of Barangay Tipanoy line up for organized relief distribution as Duyog Ramadhan reaches flood-affected households.)

As communities welcomed Ramadhan — a season of reflection, generosity, and compassion — many households were still recovering from recent flooding. In low-lying areas near riverbanks, signs of damage and vulnerability remain visible. While floodwaters have subsided, the work of rebuilding homes and restoring daily life continues.

In response, volunteers mobilized to prepare relief packs and conduct organized, house-to-house distribution across affected communities. From late-night packing efforts to coordinated delivery on the ground, the initiative brought together youth leaders, campus-based organizations, civic groups, and community networks in a shared effort of care.

(Families received relief packs directly through coordinated house-to-house distribution efforts.)

“Duyog” means to walk together. True to its name, Duyog Ramadhan emphasized accompaniment — standing beside families not only in moments of emergency, but throughout the longer process of recovery.

(In low-lying riverbank areas, families continue to recover from recent flooding as volunteers delivered essential goods.)

The initiative was organized by the Kinaiyahan Mindanao Chapter, Mindanao Climate Justice (MCJ), PANAAD Network, MSU Marawi – Communication and Media Studies Department, MSU-IIT DPH Anavah, JCI Iligan, and the Rotary Club. The collaboration reflected the strength of youth-led, interfaith, and civic partnerships in responding to community needs.

For Mindanao Climate Justice, solidarity during times of disaster is closely linked to the broader challenge of building safer and more resilient communities. Areas repeatedly exposed to flooding require not only immediate relief, but sustained attention to vulnerability and environmental risk.

The organizing groups expressed deep gratitude to donors — including UPCM Class ’79, partner organizations, and individual contributors — whose generosity made the relief operation possible. Community members also shared their appreciation, affirming that timely support during the start of Ramadhan carried both practical and moral significance.

(Community members expressed their gratitude to UPCM Class ’79 and other donors whose support made the relief effort possible.)

The first wave of Duyog Ramadhan marks the beginning of continued efforts. Organizers are now preparing a second wave of distribution to reach additional families in the coming days.

As Ramadhan continues, Duyog Ramadhan affirms a commitment that extends beyond one relief operation: communities grow stronger when they walk together — in faith, in solidarity, and in the shared work of rebuilding.

Ramadhan Kareem.