Help Siargao Island, Typhoon disaster relief

Hello Friends and Family! Mushi, Paolo, and Carrie here. Owner/operators of Vedya Siargao Hostel. We are writing to you in behalf of the people of Siargao and Chin (Mushi’s wife) who is still stuck in the island. On December 16 super typhoon Rai (category 5) was a direct hit to the tiny island of Siargao. It is the first island to be struck by the typhoon/hurricane since it is in eastern most part of the Philippines. Damages are heavy and catastrophic. Electricity went down at 1pm and by 2pm all forms of communication to the Island were and are still cut off. We have not had any contact from anyone in Vedya or Siargao. Today is the first time we received direct information from a guest who was just rescued out of the Island and therefore had cellphone service.

Judging from previous experience with typhoon relief efforts, government aid will be slow and full of attachments. Vedya is in a unique opportunity to help directly by providing shelter, commercial kitchens, and helicopter access all within our land. So far, we are working directly with Sunlight Air airlines to provide food, water, and medical supplies daily. We are lucky that damages to the Vedya building have been comparatively lower being that it is a concrete structure unlike most of our neighbors. Vedya is currently housing many of our local neighbors and guests from other hostels around us.

Until we receive more updates from the island all funds will be allocated to food, water, medical supplies, and rescue. If you live in the Las Vegas area we will also be accepting any clothing or household items donations to be shipped at a later date to help build the community back. Entire homes have been uprooted so anything will help.

If you have ever had a taste of this magical surf island you know that the people are warm hearted and really take care of their land and the tourists who visit. They know how to come together in times like this. Let’s help build back this special place we call home.

Anything helps. If you are unable to make a contribution right now then awareness and prayers are greatly appreciated! If you live in Las Vegas and would like to contribute some goods we have different locations to help aid. Thank you for the help!