Willie Revillame brings cheer to Mayon Volcano evacuees in Albay

JOY IN SHELTERS. Tv host Willie Revillame and evacuees share a laugh as the Wowowin host came for a visit in evacuation centers in Sto. Domingo and Daraga, Albay on Friday, July 14, to entertain, play games and distribute relief goods to Mayon Volcano evacuees. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

DARAGA, Albay — TV host and actor Willie Revillame made a surprise visit in evacuation centers in Albay province on Friday (July 14) to entertain evacuees who had to temporarily leave their homes when Mayon Volcano showed signs of heightened activity last month.

During Revillame’s short visit at two evacuation centers in Sto. Domingo and Daraga towns, the evacuees participated in the game of “Hep Hep Hooray” that was made popular at the host’s now defunct noontime TV program “Wowowin.”

Ten kids got P1,000 each as consolation prize for a children’s game while adults got P2,000 each as consolation prize for participating in the game for their category.

Game winners received P5,000, and jackets were randomly given to evacuees.

READ: Phivolcs warns anew: Heavy rain may trigger lahar at Mayon Volcano

“This is what I miss so much, your yelling, loud applause and most of all to make you all happy. I would like to thank Congressman Zaldy Co of Ako Bicol Partly-list for bringing me here [to] have the chance to be with you,” Revillame told the evacuees.

He also advised them to “cheer up, be patient, stay healthy and be strong all the time” while staying at evacuation centers.

READ: Ako Bicol installs water supply systems for Mayon evacuees

The host said their safety and protection from calamities are important.

“Pray hard that Mount Mayon eruption will be over soon,” he added.

Revillame, along with Ako Bicol Party-list representatives will also conduct relief distribution in Tabaco City and Camalig town Saturday.

Revillame also announced that his Wowowin show will return soon but online – on video sharing platform YouTube – and via Facebook live. MICHAEL B. JAUCIAN INQ

READ: Solon insists on permanent evacuation centers as Mayon remains restive