The convent in the Our Lady of Candles Parish, Hinobaan, Negros Occidental was already dilapidated years ago. Fundraising for its renovation was a challenge since the majority of the parishioners were low-income farmers and fishers.
When Typhoon Odette struck, the convent sustained further damage, and even the Bishop of Kabankalan said it would be more cost-efficient to build a new convent than to try repairing the old one. A new convent would cost P4.8-M, according to plans drafted by a local architect/engineer.
Tanging Yaman Foundation committed to donate P2-M for a new convent. Groundbreaking ceremonies last July 8 were attended by the Parish Pastoral Council, Finance Council, and Kristianong Katilingban. The Parish is still hoping to raise more donations. AM+DG