Leyte gets new evacuation center

MANILA, Philippines - PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), with the support of One Meralco Foundation and Ciena Communications, turned over a multipurpose and evacuation center to the archdiocese of Palo town in Leyte recently. 

The MVP Tulong Kapatid center can withstand maximum sustained winds of 250 kilometers-per-hour and accommodate up to 1,500 people during calamities. It can also serve as a venue for community gatherings and events. 

“The MVP Tulong Kapatid multipurpose and evacuation center creates a greater sense of community among the people of Palo. It is truly an embodiment of their resilience as they continue to rebuild their lives,” Esther Santos, PSF president, said. 

Santos said the center could also be used as a gym. PSF donated basketball rings and backboards while the MVP Sports Foundation gave 50 basketballs and equipment. 

The project is a partnership between the MVP Group led by the PSF and the archdiocese of Palo, Leyte.  

Archbishop John Du relayed the gratitude of Palo residents, saying it is a “concrete manifestation of God’s love for us.”