Shell partners with Jesse Robredo Foundation

Around 120 fishermen from four Eastern Samar municipalities received boats and solar lamps from Shell in partnership with the Jesse Robredo Foundation (JMRF), as part of the company’s continuous support of rehabilitation efforts in provinces affected by Typhoon Yolanda.

Through its social development arm Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI), the power, energy and gas technology leader adopted selected barangays in Lawaan, Quinapondan, Salcedo and Balangiga under JMRF’s “Tabangay-Bayanihan Para sa Mga Barangay” project.

"By joining their advocacy through the donation of fishing boats, we were able to help in paving the way to recovery," said PSFI executive director Edgar Veron Cruz.

Shell donated Php 3 million to JMRF, which was used to procure 120 motorized fishing boats that were distributed to the fishermen in Eastern Samar starting August last year. In order to further help in the livelihood of the fishermen and provide access to energy, Shell also gave 140 multi-purpose solar lamps for the beneficiaries and barangay centers in January this year

"JMRF identified which communities in Region VIII were devastated by the typhoon but haven’t received any assistance yet. We found out that many residents in Eastern Samar communities still need support. We are thankful that we have partnered with Shell who is very willing to give help," said Camarines Sur 3rd District Representative Leni Robredo, JMRF chairperson.

"Thank you for joining us in our advocacy of continuing the legacy of the late Secretary Jesse Robredo and bringing hope to the municipalities affected by the Typhoon Yolanda," added Patricia Robredo, JMRF executive director.

Andres Sevilla, a resident of Barangay Sta. Margarita in Quinapondan, is one of the 120 beneficiaries of the fishing boats and solar lamps. "We are very thankful to JMRF and Shell, for all your support. This is a big help for us fishermen who lost our boats. It is really hard for us to find livelihood these days but through your help, we can now go back to fishing," he said.

"Thank you for coming here to help us victims of Yolanda. We [fishermen] are very glad that we were given a chance to move on and get back on our feet through your help," added Barangay Captain Lerio Sabulao of Lawaan, who was also one of the beneficiaries. ###