By: Shamma Bless Delalamon
In the quiet stillness of midnight on May 6, 2025, tragedy struck Purok Kulasi, Barangay Labangal in General Santos City. A devastating fire erupted—its origin a solitary candle left unattended in an unoccupied home. Within moments, the flames consumed three zones of the area, reducing hundreds of homes to ashes and leaving 282 families bereft of shelter and possessions. The inferno spread with alarming speed, aided by strong sea winds and the flammable nature of the houses, many of which were constructed from lightweight materials. Among the hardest hit were members of indigenous Moro communities—including the Maguindanao, Maranao, Sangil, Tausug, and Badjao tribes—whose lives were upended in an instant.
In response to this heart-wrenching calamity, the Evangel Family Church (EFC) General Santos initiated Operation Gugma on May 17, 2025. This outreach mission, driven by compassion and solidarity, was a manifestation of the church’s unwavering commitment to serve humanity in times of profound need. Through the generous support of EFC Gensan members, partners, friends, and the JECPP, the church was able to extend a powerful gesture of hope and assistance.
With hearts wide open, the team distributed 200 relief packs, 230 bags of rice, 210 hygiene kits, 100 bottles of clean drinking water, 60 pairs of slippers, 210 fruit sodas, 20 sacks of pre-loved clothing, and 300 warm cups of comforting arroz caldo. Each item was not just a basic necessity—it was a symbol of care, empathy, and restoration.
A special celebration was also held for 219 children who had endured the trauma of displacement. Volunteers from EFC Gensan’s Feeding Ministry orchestrated a joyous gathering filled with laughter, games, and dancing. For a brief moment, the burden of their loss was lifted. Their smiles, wide and uninhibited, became a quiet testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of joy.
Behind the scenes, the Women of Faith and Men of Courage of EFC General Santos worked diligently, pouring love into every packed item and every act of service. More than just logistical support, they offered their presence, their compassion, and their time. One tribal leader shared in heartfelt gratitude that no group had ever come to them with such overflowing kindness. The sincerity reflected in the eyes of the recipients—carrying their relief goods with humble joy—was deeply moving. Witnessing children’s elation as they danced and wore their new “tsinelas” was a poignant reminder: hope can bloom even in the ashes.
It is often in the darkest of times that the light of human kindness shines brightest. We extend our profound gratitude to Pastors Peter and Christine Wee for initiating JECPP’s financial partnership in this mission. Through this outreach, we have been reminded that even the smallest gestures of goodwill can spark immense happiness.
Let the heart of God become the heartbeat of His people—an unceasing wellspring of compassion. Let us always be ready for the next Operation Gugma, ready to love without measure and serve without hesitation.
