Cathay Pacific launches ‘Yolanda’ relief efforts

CATHAY Pacific launched a series of relief efforts for the benefit of supertyphoon Yolanda victims.

The airline transported 66,261 kilograms of relief goods from the French government for distribution through the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Cebu.

A second chartered flight also brought 67,440 kilos of relief goods from New York to Manila.

In addition, two more chartered flights are expected to arrive in Cebu to deliver donations from Frankfurt and Hong Kong.

Cathay Pacific also donated 5,518 sets of sleep suits and 3,900 blankets from its inflight stock, which were distributed through the Philippine Red Cross. The company also prepared inflight fundraising activities among its passengers.

Proceeds will be used to provide food for children, health kits, water and hygiene necessities. Additional information will also be disseminated to Asia Miles members on how to support its charity partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund and Red Cross.

The airline also conducted relief operations among its staff. The total amount raised will be matched by Cathay Pacific.

To date, the staff has raised a total of US$108,386. The money will go directly to the Hong Kong Red Cross for the purchase of food, water, temporary shelter and other materials. Cathay Pacific will also be offering excess baggage allowance for Hong Kong Red Cross personnel flying to Cebu.

An additional voluntary fundraising activity—a local initiative of the Philippine staff—has also been set up to encourage Cathay Pacific employees to reach out to fellow staff members and their immediate families who have been affected by the typhoon.