Abu Dhabi Team Raises Funds for Flood Victims in Philippines

December 16, 2020

On November 11, Typhoon Ulysses, also known for its international name Vamco, made its landfall in the Philippines and caused heavy rains in various areas in Luzon. The heavy rains brought by Ulysses triggered severe massive floods in many provinces in the north and left the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela under a state of calamity.

Almost two weeks prior, the Philippines was hit by Super Typhoon Rolly, internationally known as Goni, the world's most powerful tropical cyclone of 2020 to date that caused violent winds, downpours and storm surges in Luzon. Following the aftermath of Goni, water was released from the nearby dam in preparation for Ulysses' landfall to avoid over spilling and prevent potential damages. Heavy rainfall, coupled with water released from the dam contributed to the alarming floods in Cagayan and Isabela that left many communities submerged in floodwaters, as deep as 15 feet in some low-lying areas.

Hundreds had to leave behind their homes to seek temporary shelter in more secure locations. But due to rapidly increasing water levels, some families were unable to evacuate safely. There were many individuals stranded on the roof of their homes, with only the limited resources they were able to bring with them. Not only has the typhoon caused the loss of livelihood, destruction of homes, and damage to infrastructure, but it has also claimed the lives of at least 20 people in Cagayan alone.

Many of our team members are from the Philippines and had family and friends back home impacted by the flood. The Canusa-CPS team worked together to raise money to help the victims impacted by the floods. Our Abu Dhabi team collected funds and goods for a donation box, including clothing and food.

One of the fundraising events included a table tennis competition where each player donated money to play. The winner, one of our Field Service and Technical Managers, donated all proceeds towards the cause.

Thank you to our team in the UAE facility for organizing the fundraiser campaign.