12/08/2026
Hope Rises Through Unity: APMC Family Extends Relief to Fire-Affected Employees
August 5, 2026
Alhamdulillah, Alhamdulillah, Alhamdulillah! So Allah na Mala i Limo.
The fifth day of August 2026 will be remembered as a day of hope, compassion, and solidarity for the employees and families of Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC) who were recently affected by the devastating fire incident. What began as a tragic event that displaced several members of the APMC family transformed into a powerful testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to care for its people beyond the workplace.
Recognizing the immediate needs of the affected employees and families, the relief assistance initiative began when an anonymous doctor, moved by compassion for the fire victims, reached out to the Amai Pakpak Medical Center Employees Association (APMCEA) to explore possible avenues of assistance. Through the valuable coordination of Ms. Rasmiah Eppie of the Provincial Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the initiative gained momentum and paved the way for a collaborative humanitarian response. Building upon this initiative, the Amai Pakpak Medical Center Employees Association (APMCEA), under the leadership of its President, Ms. Janisha Mandara, together with the unwavering support of the APMC Top Management headed by our Medical Center Chief, Dr. Shalimar Sani Rakiin, and the Provincial Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) led by Bai Yasmirah Naga Pangadapun, joined hands to ensure that immediate assistance reached those who needed it most. Their collective efforts reflected the shared commitment of government agencies, hospital leadership, employee organizations, and compassionate individuals to ensure that no member of the APMC community would face adversity alone.
The relief operation was successfully conducted at the APMC Gymnasium, where 52 fire-affected employees and non-employees received much-needed relief assistance and words of encouragement. Essential household items, including sacks of rice, malongs, pails, hygiene supplies, and other basic necessities, were distributed to the beneficiaries to help address their immediate needs as they begin rebuilding their lives. Recognizing the unique needs of families with young children, baby kits were likewise provided to the three affected beneficiaries with infants and a two-year-old child, ensuring that even the youngest members of the families received appropriate care and support.
Beyond the distribution of relief goods, the activity became a meaningful expression of unity and compassion. Although no amount of assistance can replace the homes, treasured belongings, and memories lost in the fire, the overwhelming support extended by the APMC family reminded the beneficiaries that they are surrounded by people who genuinely care for their welfare. The initiative not only addressed their immediate necessities but also uplifted their spirits and renewed their confidence as they move forward from this difficult experience.
One of the highlights of the activity was the heartfelt welcome extended to the representatives from the Provincial DSWD. According to Provincial DSWD Head Bai Yasmirah Naga Pangadapun, they had anticipated proceeding directly with the distribution of relief goods upon arrival. Instead, they were warmly received by the APMC community—a gesture that deeply touched the visiting delegation and reflected the institution’s culture of gratitude, respect, and appreciation for partners who willingly extend their assistance during times of need. The warm reception further strengthened the partnership between APMC and the Provincial DSWD, fostering a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation in serving communities affected by calamities.
The success of the relief operation was made possible through the generosity of donors, the dedication of APMCEA officers and members, the steadfast support of the APMC Top Management, the invaluable assistance of the Provincial DSWD, and the collective efforts of volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their collaboration exemplified the true spirit of bayanihan—a shared commitment to serve, uplift, and restore hope among those affected by unforeseen calamities. The activity likewise highlighted the importance of interagency collaboration, compassionate leadership, and community participation in responding effectively to emergencies.
More than an accomplishment, the activity served as a reminder that the strength of an institution is measured not only by the services it provides but also by the compassion it extends to its people. In moments of crisis, APMC demonstrated that it is more than a healthcare institution—it is a family bound together by empathy, service, resilience, and unwavering solidarity.
As the beneficiaries continue their journey toward recovery, the kindness shown by every individual and organization involved will remain a lasting source of encouragement. Through collective action, generosity, and faith, the APMC family proved that while disasters may destroy physical structures, they can never extinguish the spirit of unity and compassion that defines its people. This humanitarian undertaking stands as a meaningful testament to what can be achieved when public servants, healthcare professionals, employee organizations, government agencies, and generous individuals work hand in hand toward a common purpose: restoring hope, preserving dignity, and helping fellow Filipinos rise above adversity.
