In response to the devastating effects of Typhoon Kristine, the BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive, has officially distributed ₱37 million in financial aid to families affected by the storm. Following the tragic loss of 148 lives nationwide, the Foundation committed at least ₱250,000 to each bereaved family as a gesture of compassion and support in their recovery.
The distribution began with 39 families during a turnover ceremony held on November 10 at the Talisay New Municipal Grounds in Batangas. The aid effort will extend across several regions, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), to provide continued support to affected families.
The ceremony was attended by key figures including First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, DSWD Undersecretary Pinky Romualdez, DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco, Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste, Talisay Mayor Nestor Natanauan, Bacolod Mayor Albie, BingoPlus Foundation COO Celeste Jovenir, and local leaders, alongside community members. The event underscored the Foundation’s mission to multiply the good by providing meaningful support to Filipinos in their time of need.
Devastation Left by Typhoon Kristine
Typhoon Kristine, one of the year’s most powerful storms, caused widespread devastation across South Luzon. The storm brought severe flooding and landslides, particularly affecting Batangas, where landslides in Talisay contributed to significant loss of life and property. The entire province was declared a state of calamity, and Talisay became a primary focus of the Foundation’s relief efforts.
Foundation’s Ongoing Commitment
“The BingoPlus Foundation exists to do more than just provide financial aid; it is about creating hope, resilience, and real change,” said Eusebio Tanco, Chairman of DigiPlus Interactive. “The work of the BingoPlus Foundation reflects our belief in giving back, reaching out to those in need, and multiplying the good in every way possible.”
The financial assistance builds on the Foundation’s earlier efforts, which included partnering with the DSWD National Resource Operations Center (DSWD NROC) to provide rice to over 750 families. The Foundation also mobilized volunteers to help repack and distribute vital supplies across affected provinces.
Additionally, in collaboration with ABS-CBN Foundation’s Sagip Kapamilya, the BingoPlus Foundation provided support to 1,000 families in Isabela, Aurora, Pangasinan, and Quezon, further solidifying its commitment to resilience and community support.
Long-Term Community Development
“The BingoPlus Foundation stands by our communities not only with immediate aid, but with a focus on resilience, unity, and hope,” Tanco added. “In moments like these, our dedication to making a lasting difference is stronger than ever.”
Since its launch, the BingoPlus Foundation has invested over ₱100 million into projects nationwide, addressing urgent community needs through healthcare, livelihood programs, and educational grants. The Foundation has also established PLUS Centers in Negros, Cebu, and General Santos—resource hubs offering health services, livelihood support, and skills training to empower communities and foster sustainable development. These centers are lasting symbols of the Foundation’s dedication to improving lives across the Philippines.