In a heartwarming display of grassroots community support, another targeted donation drive in Cebu was held in Barangay Apas, Cebu City, just steps away from the bustling IT Park, on June 24, 2026. Designed to provide essential food supplies to visually impaired residents, the initiative was spearheaded by Agustina Torres – sister of Marissa Langseth, esteemed founder of HAPI. Her efforts aimed to deliver direct, immediate relief to a marginalized sector often overlooked amid the rapid pace of the city’s commercial centers.
The humanitarian effort successfully distributed much-needed care packages to thirty-four blind individuals who are active members of CRCI (Cebu Rehabilitation Center, Inc.). For years, CRCI has served as a vital community pillar and support network, dedicated to the welfare, rehabilitation, and empowerment of visually impaired individuals across the region. By advocating for their rights and providing a platform for mutual support, the organization helps bridge the critical gap in accessibility and social services. Engaging directly with CRCI members ensured that this assistance safely and efficiently reached those whose daily lives are disproportionately impacted by physical and economic barriers.
The drive fostered a strong sense of community solidarity, reminding the beneficiaries that they are seen, valued, and deeply supported by their fellow citizens.
Each beneficiary received a supply of staple goods thoughtfully curated to ease their daily burdens. The relief packages included substantial rations of rice for everyday sustenance, canned sardines to serve as a reliable, shelf-stable source of protein, and instant noodles for quick, accessible meals. Catering to thirty-four direct beneficiaries, this focused approach allowed for a smooth, respectful, and highly personal turnover of goods. Beyond the material relief, the drive fostered a strong sense of community solidarity, reminding the beneficiaries that they are seen, valued, and deeply supported by their fellow citizens.
Agustina’s sister, Marissa (lovingly called “Ms M” by most), founded HAPI, an organization widely recognized across the country for its secular humanitarian work, educational campaigns, and environmental advocacies. While HAPI frequently operates on a larger national scale, this localized drive in Barangay Apas highlights the Torres family’s enduring commitment to hands-on philanthropy. By taking the time to focus directly on a vulnerable group near a busy commercial hub, the event proved that grassroots acts of kindness yield a profound and tangible impact. It beautifully reinforced the core humanist values of compassion and direct action, demonstrating that uplifting a community often begins with reaching out a helping hand to its individual members.
