As part of our Lenten Almsgiving project, we recently moved to rescue surplus produce from the hardworking farmers of Nueva Vizcaya. Faced with an ongoing crisis that has left tons of vegetables unsold, these farmers reached out for help—and thanks to your unwavering generosity, we were able to answer that call.
Together, we rescued 6 tons of tomatoes, cabbage, and sayote.
To make this mission even more meaningful during this holy season, we partnered with the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service (PJPS). These vegetables were donated to supplement the food allocations for our brothers and sisters at the National Bilibid Prison (Minimum Security Compound) and the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW).
We are deeply moved by the spirit of our farmers. Even in the midst of their own struggles, they showed incredible kindness by adding extra produce to our rescue mission:
"Nagbigay po ang mga farmers ng kaunting pasobra bilang pasasalamat po sa inyong patuloy na pagsuporta ninyo sa kanila. Dahil sa inyong tulong, maraming magsasaka po ang matutulungan at makakatanggap ng kabuhayan sa panahon ngayon."
Our partners at PJPS also shared their profound gratitude for this collaboration:
"All the vegetables were delivered to the Minimum Security Compound and CIW, including the 'pasobra' from the farmers. Malaking tulong po ito sa mga kapatid natin sa loob ng mga piitan. Maraming salamat!"
As we gather in reflection this Holy Week, let us offer our prayers for all those deeply affected by the current crisis. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ for our farmers and our brothers and sisters in prison.
May we all have a solemn and grace-filled Holy Week.
