In his recent visit to the Philippines, ANCOP Canada president Ricky Cuenca toured various ANCOP sites with ongoing shelter project funded by ANCOP Canada. He had a glimpse of the poor living conditions of families soon to be beneficiaries of the houses ANCOP is building. The sight was a stark reminder to Ricky of the many more poor families who are waiting to be helped for decent housing.
“The work of helping alleviate the poor’s suffering is immense,” Ricky said. “I am more emboldened to progress ANCOP Canada’s initiatives on housing and education and do vigorously our share in this God-given task. More than ever, we need kind hearted souls to donate and embrace our work,” he expressed.
Among the sites Ricky visited was Tacloban in Central Philippines, the area worst hit by super typhoon Haiyan. Ricky was confronted by the miserable condition of many families rendered homeless and still dwelling in tents. ANCOP Canada has been strengthening its efforts to help. In partnership with SM Care Foundation, ANCOP Canada is rebuilding homes in these typhoon-hit zones with an initial commitment of 100 houses.
Pope Francis, when he visited this area in February 2015, offered consolation to the people and expressed hope for a better living condition for them. The pontiff called on the Good Samaritans around the world to come to their aid.
Other ANCOP sites Ricky visited:
- Avanai, Tandang Sora St. Quezon City – 50 houses are being constructed under the sponsorship of Couples for Christ Edmonton
- Barangay Moonwalk, Paranaque, Metro Manila – 30 houses are being built
- Paniqui, Tarlac – 50 houses are constructed under the sponsorship of Couples for Christ Vancouver
- San Vicente, Tarlac – 20 houses are being built
- Palo, Leyte – 6 housing units initially constructed
The beneficiaries in the ANCOP sites will receive support for education, and will benefit from ANCOP’s spiritual formation program that will help them become self-reliant communities.