Rotary E-Club International Project

Please help and support our first International Project. The Rotary E-Club of Hawai’i in partnership with Rotary Club of Downtown Olangapo, will be raising money to provide care packages (balikbayan box) for the Aeta community in the Philippines. The Aetas, Agta or Ayta  are the indigenous people  that live in scattered, isolated mountainous northern part of The Philippines on the island of Luzon. With ongoing  clash between the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and Philippine Army, they were forced to flee away from their homes. There are 50 families (4 - 5 members in the family) that need assistance.   

What is a Balikbayan Box? - Started in the 1970s with the success of a national campaign in the Philippines encouraging people to seek jobs in other countries. This campaign was a way to boost the home economy. To encourage Filipinos living abroad to help poor rural relatives living in the Philippines, legislation was passed that allowed the millions of Filipinos working overseas to send personal goods tax-free into the country. Cost each box is $58.00 (for shipping, not including contents).  

Items needed - Canned Food/Dry Goods, Clothing (new or gently used), Toys, School Supplies.

How do I help? - There are three ways you can assist with this project:

1. Adopt a family and provide them with a fully supplied Balikbayan box (Oahu residents only).

2. Donate any needed supplies to be dispersed amongst recipient families (Oahu residents only).

3. Donate to GoFundMe Fundraiser and additional supplies will be purchased on your behalf. 

For more information on the project, please contact our International Service Chair, Howard Baddo at [email redacted].