The Australia Philippines Business Council (APBC) has launched a Filipino Students Hardship Appeal to help sustain efforts undertaken by the Filipino-Australian community and student organisations supporting those impacted by the Covid-19 crisis, announced a statement from APBC Secretariat. APBC Secretary is Mr Ken Lancero.
Partnering with Gawad Kalinga, a reputable community development organisation and registered Public Benevolent Institution in Australia, the appeal is raising funds to provide essentials to vulnerable Filipino students not benefiting from the relief programs of major education providers, according to the statement.
“The community and student groups were quick to come to the aid of those facing unexpected financial difficulties because they do not qualify for government support measures. These challenges will persist for 6-12 months; we’re calling on the business community to pitch in to help sustain the wave of support,” said APBC President Eduard Alcordo.
APBC members were among those who hastily mobilised their resources to provide emergency assistance to Filipino students.
Michael Gillis, APBC Vice President for WA and CEO of Castleglen Foods donated food hampers worth $12,000. Alex Sy of APBC VIC and Founding President of the Cebuano Association of Australia in Melbourne, spearheaded a fundraising appeal which provided 120 students with grocery vouchers as well as cold weather clothing for those facing their first winter in Australia.
APBC member San Miguel Yamamura, through Managing Director Rene Cabrera, kickstarted the appeal with an initial donation of $5,000.
The APBC is also developing a digital Job Board matching employers with vacancies with Filipino students who have lost their casual or part time jobs.
Photo caption
(L-R) David de los Reyes of the Filipino Student Council of NSW, Rene Cabrera, APBC Director and Managing Director of San Miguel Yamamura, Curtis Alejo of Gawad Kalinga NSW and APBC President Eduard Alcordo.