More than a week after a devastating fire swept through Barangay 420, Zone 43 in Manila, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) stepped in to bring much-needed relief to affected residents.
On July 11, 2025, PCSO Directors Jennifer Liongson-Guevara and Imelda Papin personally led the distribution of 117 ChariTimba food packs to families currently taking temporary shelter at the barangay hall. Each package contained essential food items—lifesaving aid for many who lost everything in the fire.
Grateful residents received the donations alongside Barangay Chairman Michael John Regala, who underscored how critical the support was for families struggling to rebuild. “Most of them left with nothing but the clothes on their backs,” he said. “These food packs mean a lot right now.”
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of July 3, reportedly started in a home that doubled as a clothing stockroom. Within minutes, the flames engulfed nearby homes, claiming the life of one elderly woman and displacing 117 families.
Manila Councilor Louisa Marie “Lady” Quintos-Tan also visited the scene to check on the victims and offer words of encouragement.
This outreach forms part of PCSO’s ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility Program, which aims to bring direct, compassionate support to Filipinos hit by crises—from natural disasters to unexpected tragedies. For the families of Barangay 420, that support brought more than just supplies—it brought a renewed sense of hope.
