https://www.facebook.com/709594208903151/

Tzu Chi Cebu, 1058 Hernan Cortes Street, Mandaue, Cebu (2026)

10/05/2026

𝟲𝟬 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗳𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲, 𝗮 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲

On May 10, Tzu Chi Cebu volunteers, scholars, and guests joined together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Tzu Chi Foundation, held in conjunction with the celebrations of Buddha Day and Mother’s Day at the Cebu-Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Cebu City.

Centered on the theme, “Let us unite in a pledge of kindness, turning our good intentions into action and praying for peace in the world,” the celebration honors the source of spiritual wisdom alongside the foundational love of the family.

The gathering unfolded with solemn rituals and heartfelt reflections. Led by Tzu Chi Cebu Officer-in-Charge Nelson Reyes, attendees participated in the procession of candles, flowers, and water offerings, followed by a walking meditation and prayers for peace, gratitude, and compassion for all beings.

Era Dona Bejoc, a guest from Catmon, shared that attending Tzu Chi’s events has gradually transformed her outlook in life. She shared that every activity she participates in leaves a sense of calmness in her heart, helping her become more patient in her daily life.

“I don’t get irritated as easily anymore; my patience has really grown,” she shared.

Beyond her own personal growth, Bejoc actively shares the teachings she has gained from Tzu Chi with her peers, offering her own life as a testament to the transformative power of these principles.

Above all, she is a mother - nurturer of loving-kindness and care. For her, the day was an opportunity to embody these teachings within her own home, showing that the greatest lesson a mother can teach is the practice of unconditional compassion.

“It was a great experience, especially coming from a family that lost a mother,” said Jade Achilles Barenio.

As a new scholar and first-time attendee, Barenio felt the event allowed him to experience new cultures and traditions while witnessing a profound expression of maternal love.

“What struck me most was that this is something new—something you don’t usually see at other events,” shared Barenio. “Seeing [the attendees] show such love for their mothers makes this an important occasion. It’s not just about Buddha Day; it’s about highlighting the importance of every mother who exists.”

For Stephen Boque, who has attended the celebration since becoming a Tzu Chi scholar a decade ago, the event has become a cherished tradition and a yearly reminder to remain grateful to his parents, especially his mother.

After years of not attending together, Boque once again brought his mother to celebrate Mother’s Day alongside his fellow scholars and Tzu Chi volunteers. “It’s her first time coming here in a long time. She used to come with me all the time when I was little,” Boque shared. “Now, I want to bring my mom to this event because I want to show her how much I love her and how grateful I am. I want her to know that.”

Despite the health and work-related challenges his mother is currently facing, Boque was determined to make this Mother’s Day a true day of rest, one filled with nothing but love and care. “We usually just keep working manning our small stores," he explained. “My mother has been facing a lot of challenges lately. I want to give her a break—an opportunity to feel the love that both I and Tzu Chi can give her.”

As Tzu Chi Foundation marks 60 years of service, volunteers, scholars, and guests in Cebu joined Tzu Chi communities around the world in a shared celebration of Buddha Day, Mother’s Day, and the foundation’s anniversary. The gathering served as a gentle reminder that peace begins within the heart, uniting people through prayers of gratitude, compassion, and harmony for the world.

09/05/2026

With hearts united in compassion, Tzu Chi Cebu joins the Tzu Chi Philippines in celebrating a historic milestone—the groundbreaking of the Tzu Chi Medical Center in the Philippines on May 8, 2026, marking a new chapter of hope, healing, and service for all.

05/05/2026

𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗶𝗲𝘁𝘆

Dharma Master Cheng Yen said, “Let us appreciate, be grateful for, and repay the love of our parents.”

From May 1 to 3, Tzu Chi Cebu held its monthly Humanities Class for scholars from Cebu Technological University - Main, Cebu City, Catmon, and Pulpogan. Centered on the theme of filial piety, the sessions explored the vital connection between the scholars and their parents, emphasizing that goodness and gratitude begin at home.

Anchored in Di Zi Gui (the Guidelines for Being a Good Student and Child), the sessions highlighted that the journey toward becoming a person of character starts with fulfilling one’s responsibilities to the family. By honoring these primary relationships, scholars cultivate the foundational values of integrity, kindness, and compassion.

Cebu scholar and speaker Gwen Loyao, shared how filial piety extends beyond the home and into society. “Family is the basic unit of society,” she said. “So when we learn how to respect, give time, and devote ourselves to our parents, we also know how to cultivate love for all human beings.”

Tzu Chi volunteer Leonida Gaerlan reflected on the sacrifices of a mother, from birth and beyond, which is reminiscent of how the earth nurtures a seed as it grows. “Let’s not forget our parents, especially our mothers,” said Gaerlan.

Alumna Riza Mae Tajor added that filial piety is expressed not through grand gestures. “Filial piety is the virtue of showing love. It doesn’t have to be grand,” she shared, “it is best shown in small, everyday actions performed with a sincere heart.

Tzu Chi volunteer Aurelia Yap highlighted the need for forgiveness in times of shortcomings and misunderstandings, stating: “We owe our lives to our parents - they are our roots. This is something to remember, even in the face of imperfections.”

The Humanities Classes concluded with a collective reflection, encouraging the scholars to bring home not just knowledge, but also a renewed commitment to repay the love of their parents. As Mother’s Day approaches, the session serves as a timely reminder to turn these lessons into tangible acts of love and appreciation for the women who raised them.

By nurturing this root of goodness, Tzu Chi Cebu continues its mission of guiding a generation of youth who are not only academically proficient but also in character, grounded in the values of love, respect, and gratitude.

27/04/2026

Tzu Chi Cebu Year in Review 2025

As we look back on 2025, we remember a year that deeply challenged Cebu with major disasters and difficult times. Yet amidst these trials, compassion continued to shine.

Through the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, partners, and the community, Tzu Chi Cebu was able to bring timely relief, comfort, and hope to families in need. From disaster response and educational support to environmental care and community outreach, every act of kindness became a source of strength for others.

This video is a heartfelt look back at the journey we shared in 2025 — a year of challenges, resilience, and compassion in action.

20/04/2026

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐡𝐚𝐧: 𝐓𝐳𝐮 𝐂𝐡𝐢 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐚𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞

Submerged in mud and floodwaters, Purok Paliya in Apas Compound and Purok Batong, Barangay Danglag, stood among the hardest-hit areas in Consolacion following the onslaught of Typhoon Tino.

In the wake of the storm, the Tzu Chi Foundation launched a two-tranche relief operation. The mission extended beyond temporary survival, focusing on the difficult transition from emergency aid to long-term community rehabilitation.

The devastation, however, was not solely an act of nature. Residents point to a man-made culprit behind the persistent flooding: clogged waterways. This systemic issue has created an exhausting daily struggle for the community.

For resident Analyn Carillo, the rainy season means more than inconvenience- it brings a loss of mobility. "Now that it’s the dry season, it’s fine," Carillo said. "But when the rains come, it floods every time. We end up carrying our children on our backs because they are in school uniforms - socks and shoes. It is an exhausting task."

Moreover, the stakes go beyond soaked shoes for Carillo and her family. She cares for a child with a disability (PWD) who requires a sterile environment. For her, stagnant floodwaters are not merely an inconvenience- they pose a direct threat to her child’s health.

The recurring flooding has also sparked a growing call for accountability within the community. Resident Gemma Espinoza Reuyan recalled the shock of returning to a home submerged in debris.

"When the typhoon hit, our house was submerged," Reuyan shared. "The amount of trash was overwhelming. It forced us to realize that we have to clean every day."

Recognizing this need, Tzu Chi Social Work Intern Jhone Rose Sy, from the University of the Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF), spearheaded a community-wide Clean-Up Drive on April 19. The initiative emerged from a general assembly where residents identified environmental neglect as their primary concern.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the project includes scheduled clean-ups during the first and last week of each month. By establishing this routine, the program aims to foster the spirit of bayanihan, encouraging neighbors to work side-by-side in protecting their environment.

"We coordinated with barangay officials to plan which areas needed cleaning the most," Sy explained. "We based the activity on our observations - the drains were severely clogged - as well as the community's need to improve overall health and sanitation."

The results of the drive brought both relief and renewed hope.

"I am so happy the residents cooperated," Carillo said. "Seeing the trash cleared from the drainage, which is the hardest part of our struggle, gives us peace of mind."

Although much work remains, Tzu Chi hopes this initiative will stand as a lasting reminder of the vital link between environmental protection and community safety. Beyond the physical labor of clearing canals, the effort underscores the importance of adopting more sustainable daily habits.

By fostering a culture of mindfulness and collective responsibility, Tzu Chi emphasizes that true rehabilitation begins with the choices people make today to prevent the disasters of tomorrow.

For Reuyan and her neighbors, the sentiment is simple: "Thank you Tzu Chi for noticing us."

12/04/2026

𝐓𝐳𝐮 𝐂𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐑𝐮𝐧

Following the successful participation of Tzu Chi Cebu in the Virtual Charity Run last March 29, the spirit of compassion and unity continued in the Municipality of Catmon on April 11, 2026.

Set along the scenic route leading to Barangay Duyan Proper, the run offered participants a refreshing experience, with trees lining both sides of the road. While many of the runners are local residents familiar with the route, its peaceful, nature-filled setting offered a gentle contrast to the usual city-based fun runs, making Catmon’s participation a uniquely grounded and refreshing expression of the nationwide event.

More than just a physical activity, the event fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among scholars, volunteers, and community members. For many Catmon residents, it was a meaningful experience to run together locally while being part of a larger movement with fellow Tzu Chi participants across the Philippines.

Adding a heartfelt touch to the activity, free champorado was prepared and served by a scholar’s mother, symbolizing the warmth and generosity of the community. In line with Tzu Chi’s commitment to environmental protection, participants used reusable and collapsible cups for their refreshments, demonstrating that even small actions can contribute to a greater cause.

Guided by the theme, “Run for kindness, run for scholars,” participants were reminded of the enduring message: “One person, one day, one good deed.”

Through each step taken along the quiet, tree-lined roads of Catmon, the run became more than just an event-it became a shared expression of compassion, unity, and hope.

10/04/2026

𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘀: 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗱𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝘂𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆 𝗘𝗿𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗮

“What is the secret to a long, happy life?,” asked Tzu Chi volunteer Leonida Gaerlan the morning of Tzu Chi’s fire relief on April 10. “It is knowing how to be grateful.”

At 60, Brandy Paca Abellar often heads to a nearby beach to let the sea breeze relieve her physical aches. But one afternoon turned into tragedy when she found out her beloved home in Barangay Ermita, Cebu City was already engulfed in flames on April 4.

“It is not easy to lose a home to fire. You are left with nothing. We no longer have our parents or grandparents; it’s just us now, which is why we always work hard,” Abellar shared. “I don't mind that my belongings are gone. What matters is my life, because material things can be earned again through hard work.”

Amidst the smoke and ruin, Abellar’s first instinct flew toward the faces of her grandchildren and nieces and nephews who were now homeless.

“My heart breaks for them,” she shared. “But even at my age, starting over is still just as difficult.”

Abellar was among the 165 household recipients of Tzu Chi’s fire relief, where they each received a 25-kilo sack of rice, bottled water, rice noodles, tarpaulins, sleeping mats, undergarments, and other groceries. These supplies are essential for providing the survivors with a sense of dignity and the immediate resources they needed to start rebuilding their daily lives from the ashes.

With deep gratitude, Abellar expressed her appreciation to the Tzu Chi Foundation for the support and assistance they provided.

In her eyes, the relief was more than just physical aid; it was a living answer to the morning's question—proving that even in the wake of disaster, there is always a reason to find contentment through the kindness of others.

“When help arrives, we are so thankful to those who assisted us because we were not abandoned. You truly helped us in our time of hardship. We are deeply grateful that there are people who cared for us,” remarked Abellar.

Above all, Abellar encouraged her neighbors to strengthen their faith to become stronger in moving forward and recovering. “My message is to stay strong, have faith, and pray to God because He is the one who guides us all,” she shared. “We were not taken from this world despite the fire. Our house burned down, but God kept us alive.”

09/04/2026

𝐓𝐳𝐮 𝐂𝐡𝐢 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐕𝐑𝐂 𝐈𝐈 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
On April 8, Tzu Chi Cebu held its bimonthly outreach program at the Area Vocational and Rehabilitation Center (AVRC) II.

The session centered on a “Master Tells a Story,” featuring a parable of a monkey and a man. The narrative served as a profound reminder that the act of helping should not cease once immediate danger passes; rather, altruism continues until one understands the true depth of gratitude, compassion, and kindness.

The story resonated deeply with the AVRC II clients, sparking an emotional sharing session where clients reflected on their personal struggles with doing goodness to others.

One AVRC II client recalled a painful experience where his efforts to help another were met not with gratitude, but with malicious gossip. Despite the betrayal, he maintained a steadfast commitment to his principles.

"Even though the good deeds I did weren't returned, I chose to let it go," he shared. "I continued to treat him with kindness regardless."

Another client echoed this sentiment, addressing the reality that some may take advantage of a person’s comfort and care. She emphasized that while ingratitude is a "bad practice," it should not dictate one's own decency.

"It is painful when people are ungrateful, especially when you didn't ask for anything in return," she noted. "But as a matter of personal decency, you must still seek to show goodness."

Tzu Chi volunteer Leonida Gaerlan then discussed the concept of karmic relationships. She explained that every action functions within a cycle, where good deeds inevitably reap positive results, while negative actions sow discord.

Gaerlan urged the attendees to remain humble and grateful at all times, reminding them that maintaining a pure heart is its own reward, regardless of how others respond, anchored on Dharma Master Cheng Yen’s Jing Si Aphorism, “True goodness is to reach out naturally without the slightest hesitation.”

The session concluded with a simple vegetarian meal prepared by Tzu Chi volunteers.

01/04/2026

𝐓𝐳𝐮 𝐂𝐡𝐢 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐏𝐍𝐇𝐒
On March 30, Tzu Chi Cebu was recognized by Pulpogan National High School (PNHS) during their 31st End of School Year Rites with a Plaque of Appreciation.

The ceremony featured the Pasidungog sa mga Stakeholders 2026, honoring the partners and organizations that has helped the school enhance its learning facilities, support student welfare, and foster a conducive environment for academic excellence.

Through the Adopt-a-School Program, PNHS and Tzu Chi Cebu bridged the gap in educational resources and provide essential support that directly impacted the holistic development of the students over the years.

This partnership was especially vital in the aftermath of Typhoon Tino, when Tzu Chi distributed gift certificates to the entire student body. These vouchers allowed students to replace school supplies that had been submerged or swept away by floodwaters, ensuring that their education could continue despite the calamity.

For PNHS Adopt-a-School Program Focal Person Wendylyn Tolelis, Tzu Chi was instrumental in the school’s success. She noted that Tzu Chi serves as a pillar of support that went beyond material donations by instilling values of compassion and service within the community through its missions.

“Everything Tzu Chi [has] wholeheartedly given to us, we are very thankful [for] that,” she added.

01/04/2026

𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐬𝐚

Relentless apologies echoed through Tisa National High School as resident Desina Pedrosa wept before her neighbors following the fire that razed 110 homes on March 23. According to local accounts, the blaze originated in Pedrosa’s residence, sparked by faulty electrical wiring that quickly engulfed the neighborhood.

On March 30, the Tzu Chi Foundation brought aid to fire-stricken families, restoring a sense of hope amid loss.

Volunteers worked together to organize multiple distribution stations, allowing beneficiaries to receive assistance in a smooth and orderly flow—from gift certificates to essential supplies. Each family received a 25-kilogram sack of rice, bottled water, tarpaulins, sleeping mats, groceries, detergent, undergarments, and gift certificates.

Even a week after the tragedy, Pedrosa remained consumed by self-blame and guilt.

“Everything we worked so hard for over the years—it’s all gone. Years of hard work turned to ashes,” she shared tearfully.

Yet amid the devastation, she expressed gratitude that no lives were lost. “I am still thankful to the Lord that none of our neighbors lost their lives,” Pedrosa added.

The assistance brought comfort to many residents, including Marcelo Montejo, who suffered burns on his right forearm after returning to his burning home in an attempt to save his belongings. He managed to salvage only an empty backpack and the clothes he was wearing.

For families like Mae Gula’s, survival came in the most desperate of moments. With shampoo suds still in her hair and wearing only a duster dress, she rushed to rescue her children. Their home, located directly below the origin of the fire, had its main exit blocked by flames, forcing them to escape through a neighbor’s kitchen.

Now staying in a nearby chapel, Gula and her husband, a habal-habal driver, are doing everything they can to rebuild their lives. “It is really hard to recover because the money we’ve managed to save is still so little; it is not enough to rebuild our home,” she shared.

Despite the hardship, hope remains. Her children are set to finish the school year with honors, giving her strength to move forward.
“I am still happy that despite what happened, my children are still honor students. That is the only joy I have right now,” she said.

Rey Dula, also a habal-habal driver, recalled the panic he felt upon hearing of the fire. After dropping off a passenger, he rushed home, fearing for his family’s safety. With their only exit blocked, his wife—still in the middle of bathing—braved the flames to pull their children to safety.

Many families shared similar stories of narrow escapes, loss, and uncertainty about rebuilding. Yet, amid grief, gratitude prevailed.
Like Pedrosa and Gula, residents expressed deep appreciation for the support they received. “This is a massive help for us,” one beneficiary shared.

For her neighbors, Gula offered a message of resilience: “Just keep getting up, keep surviving, and keep moving forward in life. What matters most is that we are all safe.”

31/03/2026

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭

Helping without expecting anything in return is a core principle of Tzu Chi Foundation, highlighting the importance of gratitude and respect. After many years of being supported as scholars, the hearts of alumni Iamar Arnaiz and Ma. Jemimah Binondo now find joy in giving back and reciprocating the assistance they once received.

Arnaiz, a Marine Engineering graduate in 2023, and Binondo, who earned her Business Administration degree in 2024, both participated in Tzu Chi’s Virtual Fun Run held last March 29 at the Cebu City Sports Complex.

Even after completing their studies, both Arnaiz and Binondo remain familiar faces in the Tzu Chi community, frequently returning to support Tzu Chi's events.

Reflecting on his recent involvement, Arnaiz noted that participating in the fun run is his way of honoring the support that helped shape his success. "Since I was a scholar myself, I know this fun run is for the scholars who are still in school now—just like I was before," he shared.

Now working, both alumni help support their families financially. Arnaiz continues to build his career while contributing to his family’s needs. “It’s really been challenging for me because I’m supporting my family while still working toward my personal goals,” he added.

Binondo, on the other hand, shared the emotional challenges of becoming her family’s breadwinner. “Sometimes, I feel overwhelmed because I don’t know what to do first,” she said. “It makes me doubt myself, like how I can manage everything. I don't always know how or where to start again.”

But as she navigates the challenges of adulthood, she finds comfort in having courage and taking things one step at a time. “I make sure not to rush myself and to think carefully before doing anything,” she added.

Reflecting on their journeys, both alumni shared heartfelt advice for the current generation of scholars.

For Arnaiz, the key to resilience lies in Tzu Chi’s teachings. “Follow Master Cheng Yen’s words of wisdom—the Jing Si Aphorisms—so they can guide you in your studies and as you transition into your careers,” he shared. “These teachings will make you stronger and help you stand firm against any challenge you may face in life.”

Binondo, on the other hand, looked back with deep appreciation for the transformation she experienced. “Words are not enough to express my gratitude [to Tzu Chi]. Thank you for shaping me into who I am today,” she said. To the scholars, her message was simple yet powerful: “Keep striving, stay kind, and never forget to give back to others.”

In this continuing cycle of love and compassion, these two alumni transformed gratitude into action by participating in the Virtual Tzu Chi Fun Run, supporting the very scholarship program that once championed their dreams.

Tzu Chi Cebu

10/05/2026

09/05/2026

05/05/2026

27/04/2026

20/04/2026

12/04/2026

10/04/2026

09/04/2026

01/04/2026

01/04/2026

31/03/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Organization

Shortcuts

Share

Category