Binibining Pilipinas candidates help build homes for the typhoon victims in Tanay, Rizal

[Source: Bb. Pilipinas (Official) Facebook Page]

Last March 13, the candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2013 embarked on an outreach program to help build homes for typhoon victims in Tanay, Rizal.

The Gawad Kalinga Bayanihan charity project was spearheaded by Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. chairperson Stella Marquez-Araneta, Tanay mayor Rafael Tanjuatco and Gawad Kalinga officials.

The 50 candidates assisted in building houses at the Julio Iglesias-Araneta Center GK Village — a P20 million housing project for families displaced by typhoons.

>> Learn more about Gawad Kalinga's disaster response and reconstruction efforts

>> Read about Operation Walang Iwanan: Typhoon Pablo

GK Area Coordinator Bodoy Oquiñena explaining the different projects of Gawad Kalinga to the reigning beauties

[Source: Bb. Pilipinas (Official) Facebook Page]

The charity project kicked off when international music icon Julio Iglesias offered the profits of his Philippine concert to build homes for typhoon victims. Around 160 houses are expected to be completed next year.

2012 Binibining Pilipinas titleholders including Ms. Universe 2012 1st runner-up Janine Tugonon also took part in the Bayanihan build, along with the golden batch of Binibining Pilipinas candidates.

“Andito kami para tulungan ang mga kababayan natin na nabiktima ng bagyong Ondoy kasi ni-relocate sila sa lugar na 'to para may bago silang bahay... may bago silang buhay... may bago silang pag-asa,” she said enthusiastically.

Aside from building homes, the ladies also spent time with the kids of the beneficiaries.

(L): More than 200 kids were divided into groups for a storytelling session with the candidates

(R): The children welcomed the group with a dance number

[Source: Bb. Pilipinas (Official) Facebook Page]

To read more, click here.

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Every time disasters occur, Gawad Kalinga volunteers and partners respond heroically by sharing resources, organizing relief drives, helping network to others, and even taking part in reconstruction efforts. Currently, OPERATION WALANG IWANAN is ongoing for the victims of Typhoon Pablo, and we need YOUR help. Let us transform this disaster into an opportunity to bring hope to the affected families. Walang Iwanan!