FILE PHOTO: Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, attends the annual Allen and Co. Sun Valley media conference in Sun Valley, Idaho, U.S., July 10, 2019. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo
MANILA, Philippines — Netizens, including celebrity mom Pia Magalona, are urging Apple CEO Tim Cook to send the company’s contribution to the relief efforts for those affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) through the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
“Typhoon Rai has caused so much devastation in the Philippines and Malaysia — so many families have lost so much. Apple will be contributing to relief, recovery, and longer-term rebuilding efforts,” Cook said in a tweet last Dec. 21.
Typhoon Rai has caused so much devastation in the Philippines and Malaysia — so many families have lost so much. Apple will be contributing to relief, recovery, and longer-term rebuilding efforts. #OdettePH
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) December 21, 2021
In response to this, Magalona, talent manager and widow of iconic Filipino rapper Francis Magalona, asked the Apple CEO to ensure that the donation is handed over to Vice President Leni Robredo’s office.
“Pls make sure you send it straight to the Office of the Vice President to be sure it gets to those affected by #OdettePH. Thank you!!,” her reply to Cook’s tweet read.
Pls make sure you send it straight to the Office of the Vice President to be sure it gets to those affected by #OdettePH. Thank you!!
— Pia Magalona ⁷ (@piamagalona) December 21, 2021
Numerous Twitter users made similar calls.
“Thank you, Apple, for your pledge. Many Filipinos desperately need help. Maybe you can partner with the office of the Vice President. She has been on ground zero personally assessing the damage. Efficient and trustworthy office. No corruption,” one user said.
Meanwhile, Senator Manny Pacquiao also offered to assist Apple in its contribution.
“Thank you for helping our country. If there is anything our team here in the Philippines can do to help you on the ground, we are at your disposal,” Pacquiao said.
Thank you for helping our country.
If there is anything our team here in the Philppines can do to help you on the ground, we are at your disposal.
— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) December 21, 2021