By Ernelyn Mariquit

ILIGAN CITY — A coordinated relief effort led by a local church network delivered immediate assistance to hundreds of families after widespread flooding affected most parts of the city.

Severe floods inundated 33 of Iligan’s 44 barangays following days of heavy rains, leaving many communities without electricity, clean water, and accessible roads. In response, the Iligan City Church, working with the district, Dalipuga Church, NCDF (the church’s local school), IVCF, and NCM, organized an immediate relief operation.

Initial funds were provided by NCM, while additional support of ₱54,501 in cash donations was raised through various churches and individuals, along with in-kind contributions. Volunteers conducted rapid assessments in areas that remained passable after the typhoon.

Relief packs were distributed to 357 families across different barangays. Each pack contained rice, drinking water, canned goods, biscuits, hygiene supplies, and cleaning materials, including brushes and pails. The contents prioritized ready-to-eat food, addressing the needs of residents in areas where utilities were disrupted for several days.

In Barangay Mahayahay, one of the areas heavily impacted by flooding, volunteers also provided lunch meals to 110 individuals as residents continued clearing debris and mud from their homes.

Several of the communities reached during the operation had not yet received aid from local government units or private groups at the time of distribution. Alongside material assistance, volunteers offered prayers and presence to affected residents.

The church facilities also served as a temporary shelter for three families who evacuated during the flood. In addition, one room was made available to a youth organization, which used the space as a hub for its own relief packing activities.

With many areas still undergoing recovery, the church is preparing the next phase of its response through the establishment of a Child Friendly Space scheduled for this week and the following week, aimed at supporting children affected by the disaster.

The relief initiative is part of ongoing community-based efforts to assist Iligan residents as the city continues its recovery from the floods.