In the spirit of Dungan sa Pagbangon, the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI)’s earthquake response campaign for the affected communities of Northern Cebu; RAFI staff, known as RAFInians, have been mobilized for both on-ground deployment and relief packing in support of ongoing operations.
These meaningful acts of service reflect RAFI’s core value of service. This mirrors its commitment to stand alongside the community as it recovers and rebuilds. When the call to serve is made, RAFInians respond not just by duty, but by a shared purpose to help those who need it most.
Service – A Part of the RAFInian Journey
Meet Constantine “Tats” Samson, a RAFInian for over 25 years. Having responded to several calamities throughout his tenure, this recent earthquake is yet another opportunity for him to live out his calling: a call to service.
As one of the senior staff in RAFI, Tats remains active in the field, bringing with him a bag of experience that continues to guide and inspire response operations.
“Being part of RAFI, Tatak RAFInian, means you’ve been part of relief operations at some point. It’s part of the journey. The feeling of being both a responder and a RAFInian is fulfilling, knowing you’ve helped people in their time of need,” he shared.
However, being a responder is not without its challenges, especially when you’re also personally affected by the same crisis. “It’s difficult, especially when you have to think about your own family too. Sometimes, there’s barely time to process. You’re doing assessment work today, and the next day, you’re already deployed for distribution,” he said.
Despite the intensity of the work, Tats finds meaning in the experience.
True to RAFI’s core value of Service, Tats shares how this mission continues to resonate deeply with him: “Service to mankind, that’s what defines Tatak RAFI. Even if you have personal things to deal with, you’re willing to set them aside for the greater good. Especially now, when people from far-flung areas are in urgent need, As RAFInians, this is how we show our care. We are here as an instrument, and we are given an opportunity to help the people in need in times of crisis,” he explained.
RAFInians on Video
Here are compiled videos of RAFInians on-field and relief goods packing:
In times of crisis, the true spirit of service is felt and seen. These videos capture the dedication, compassion, and teamwork of RAFInians who stepped up to serve communities in need. May these moments inspire us to keep living out our core values in the spirit of Dungan sa Pagbangon—together, with purpose, and for others.
