Returning to Serve: Humanitarian Outreach 2025
Returning to Serve: Valley Hi Lions and Partners Lead Humanitarian Outreach 2025 in Iriga
In the wake of Super Typhoon Kristine and a string of natural disasters in late 2024, Humanitarian Outreach 2025 (HO25) emerged as a critical, multi-month relief and recovery initiative in Iriga City, Philippines. Spanning from November 2024 to February 2025, HO25 united a coalition of experienced volunteers from the International Bicolano Association Abroad (IBAA), Sacramento Valley Hi Lions Club (Valley Hi), and local leaders. This mission extended beyond immediate relief, addressing environmental degradation, healthcare gaps, food insecurity, and economic instability in the Rinconada region.
HO25 drew upon a legacy of collaboration between IBAA and Valley Hi, first established after Super Typhoon Reming in 2007. The Nagrampa-Almazan family, with deep roots in both the Philippines and the U.S., played a vital role in leadership and logistics. Key figures included Lion Vincent Nagrampa, RN (Ret.), serving as local lead and Punong Barangay of San Vicente Sur; Dr. Marietta Almazan, a strong advocate for community health; IBAA President Barry Nagrampa; and HO25 Coordinator Marilyn DeLas Llagas, RN (Ret.).
The mission operated out of the Nagrampa/Almazan family compound in Iriga, which functioned as a hub for coordinating the diverse humanitarian efforts.
Environmental Restoration
A cornerstone of HO25 was reforestation and climate resilience. Over 1,000 seedlings—including Narra, Mahogany, and Ambiong trees—were planted in forested and riverside areas across Iriga City. Collaborations with DENR, CENRO Iriga, and community volunteers ensured a sustainable, long-term commitment to reforestation, waste management, and ecological stewardship.
Healthcare Access
HO25’s medical missions prioritized marginalized communities. On December 12, 2024, nearly 200 residents of Balatan, Camarines Sur, received medical attention, free medications, and psychosocial support. A second phase followed on February 9, 2025, reaching residents of Ipil, Buhi, with care focused on disease prevention and mental wellness. Dr. Almazan emphasized a holistic approach, integrating physical and emotional well-being in these services.
Combatting Hunger & Building Livelihoods
Food insecurity was addressed with the distribution of 450–500 food packs to families across 10–12 barangays. Livelihood empowerment followed through the “Plant a Seed” initiative, distributing 1,500–2,000 solid wood and fruit-bearing tree seedlings. Under a formal MOA, beneficiaries committed to nurturing these trees as a step toward self-sufficiency.
A harvest contest motivated ongoing participation, offering incentives such as seeds, fertilizer, and gardening tools. Seed propagation also supported vegetable gardening. Meanwhile, TESDA-backed vocational training certified 29 individuals in sewing, beauty services, massage therapy, and gardening. Graduates received start-up kits, such as sewing machines and mani-pedi tools, enabling them to launch small businesses.
Youth Engagement & Anti-Drug Advocacy
HO25 also targeted youth development. Anti-drug campaigns, mental health workshops, mentorship programs, basketball tournaments, and student speaker contests aimed to uplift young people and promote leadership, healthy choices, and community involvement.
A Lasting Impact
HO25 was made possible through personal donations and support from IBAA, Valley Hi, and other private contributors. While the initiative concluded in early 2025, its long-term impact continues through planted trees, trained entrepreneurs, healthier citizens, and inspired youth. More than a response to crisis, HO25 reaffirmed the power of service, resilience, and shared responsibility.
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