The Philippines was hit by back to back typhoons in a course of two weeks, adding more pain to devastated communities. Super Typhoon Rolly (Goni) the strongest typhoon ever recorded in recent history struck the southern region of the Philippines on November 1st affecting an estimated two million Filipinos, many of whom lost their homes and livelihoods. Ten days later, Typhoon Ulysses (Vamco) swept through many of the same provinces previously devastated by Typhoon Rolly. Multiple storms in succession meant more trouble for people still trying to clean up after Goni, on top of the prolonged effect of the coronavirus pandemic. The torrential rains left widespread flooding and power outages in Metro Manila and parts of Central Luzon.
Many areas are still struggling to recover from aftermath of these calamities. Homes and livelihood across various provinces were lost to floods, strong winds and rain. LGUs and other organizations continue to mobilize and provide assistance to all who were affected by these typhoons, but many are still in desperate need of help.
In line with this, the leading destination for short-form mobile video, TikTok has pledged to donate US$300,000 (approximately Php15M) to support typhoon relief and rehabilitation efforts. US$150,000 has been allocated to the Philippine Red Cross for their onground mobilization efforts providing hot meals and other urgent necessities in affected communities.
“The Philippine Red Cross is always committed to reaching out to the helpless and to the most vulnerable. TikTok’s donation will surely go a long way in further strengthening PRC’s humanitarian efforts to alleviate the suffering of those who were impacted by the recent calamities. You can be sure the Red Cross will continue to be there for the people affected,” said Senator Richard Gordon, Chairman of the Philippine Red Cross.
On Saturday, November 28 at 7:00pm, TikTok will also host the #TikTokTogetherPH virtual live fundraising concert featuring The Itchyworms, Mayonnaise, Kyline Alcantara, Rico Blanco, and Ella Cruz among other guest artists and local creators, joining one another on the app to help Filipinos in need. Proceeds from the virtual event will be turned over to partner organizations, with TikTok supplementing funds raised up to US$150,000.
“We stand with all Filipinos during their time of need and we want to do what we can to help all those affected get back on their feet. TikTok has been the go-to platform for happy and inspiring moments, now we are extending this mission even beyond the app,” TikTok said.
As it spreads joy and inspiration to millions of people on the platform each day, TikTok is also committed to doing its part in helping the broader community through these efforts and in partnership with organizations like the Philippine Red Cross.
TikTok is available for download on Google Play and the App Store.
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