American Red Cross Guam Chapter presents Typhoon Mawar response report

BY PAULY SUBA
Journal Staff

The American Red Cross Guam Chapter reported on the organization's response to last year's Typhoon Mawar recovery efforts. Marcos Fong, the chapter's chairperson, and CEO Chita Blaise led the presentation, with board members and many volunteers in attendance.

During the presentation held at the governor's office in Adelup on Tuesday, June 18, Fong outlined the Red Cross's actions before, during, and after the disasters, emphasizing their preparedness and swift response. "Our local chapter maintains a warehouse of emergency supplies on-island, and disaster volunteers are deployed or positioned on standby for immediate response," he said.

Fong provided a timeline of the events starting on May 20, 2023, when the Joint Information Center issued the first warnings related to the disturbance 97W. By May 24th, it became clear that Guam would face a direct hit. "This was one of the strongest storms in Guam since August 9, 2002," Fong said.

Highlighting the rapid response, he said, "Within 72 hours of the storm's passing, a small contingent of Red Cross volunteers were already on board a C-130 military transport from Honolulu before our commercial airport was able to receive any inbound flights." He praised the resilience and dedication of local volunteers, such as Ellery Paz, who played a crucial role in supporting shelter residents and distributing emergency supplies. "It is the heroism of our local Guam volunteers, some of whom are here today, that really led the charge," Fong said.

The extensive relief efforts continued into August, providing critical aid to over 27,000 individuals, including financial assistance, meals, and shelter. "We provided over 342,000 meals and snacks with the help of our community restaurant partners and more than 30,000 overnight stays," he said. Fong also acknowledged the significant financial support from the community, with over $1.5 million raised locally. "As the dust settles today on the disaster operations, national headquarters reports that over $13 million was spent in support of Guam's recovery from Typhoon Mawar," he said.

Expressing gratitude for the support from local and federal agencies, Fong said, "I could not be more proud. Guam and our neighbors around the pacific region answered the call for fundraising as well." Fong said, I'd like to reiterate our commitment of the American Red Cross in supporting Guam during both blue skies and gray skies."

Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero, governor of Guam highlighted the Red Cross's century-long presence on the island and their consistent provision of life-saving services. "When people are faced with emergencies, they are very scared...But American Red Cross always comes to give them a piece of confidence and a piece of security," she said, reflecting on the community's fears and the Red Cross's reassuring presence during the typhoon.

Leon Guerrero praised the collaborative efforts of local and national Red Cross teams, emergency responders, and community leaders. "I have had the pleasure of working with your local people. And believe me, we were very hands-on because we visited those shelters," she said, emphasizing the unique spirit of Guam in lifting each other up during crises. She reiterated her appreciation for the Red Cross and the collective efforts that helped Guam recover. "Thank you from a grateful island and a grateful people, our people of Guam, for all that you do...We are about families. And at the end of the day, all our work is about lifting the quality of life of every people on the island so that they continue to be in a safe, prosperous environment."

Chita Blaise, CEO of the American Red Cross Guam chapter expressed deep gratitude to governor Leon Guerrero for her leadership during the crisis. "Your swift response, decisive leadership, and unwavering commitment have been pillars of strength during these trying times," Blaise said. She praised the governor's role in mobilizing critical resources, including public works buses and drivers who delivered meals to victims.

Blaise also commended the coordinated efforts of emergency responders, led by former adjutant general Esther Aguigui of Guam Homeland Security, and the 19 village mayors under mayor Jesse Alig's leadership. "The hardworking, dedicated Red Cross volunteers working long hours... and our very small staff, worked 24-7 for almost two months, making sure that all lines of services were covered," Blaise said.

She applauded the community's resilience and the exemplary support from local leaders and organizations. "To the residents of our community, you have shown remarkable resilience and courage in the face of loss and devastation. You have come together, supporting one another with kindness and compassion," Blaise said. "Your collective efforts have brought hope and delight to our community in its darkest hour. Together, we will rebuild, renew, and rise again." mbj

(To read the full report, click the link provided American Red Cross Mawar Report )