Masbate, an island diocese in the Philippines, was the hardest hit by Typhoon Ompong among the Bicol dioceses. In response, neighboring dioceses have launched assistance drives, urging parishioners to contribute through second collections and donate to affected communities in Masbate.
The Masbate Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) confirmed that the typhoon caused widespread destruction to infrastructure and agriculture across the province. All 20 municipalities, including Masbate City, reported damage.
The province remains without electricity, and communication lines are still down. Local officials said 8,604 families, or about 26,000 individuals, were affected and are temporarily staying in evacuation centers. At least three people died after being struck by falling trees and collapsing structures.
Sorsogon Diocese
The Diocese of Sorsogon, the nearest to Masbate, announced that “in solidarity with our brothers and sisters who have been severely affected by Typhoon Ompong, all parishes in the Diocese of Sorsogon will hold a second collection in all Masses beginning Sept. 27, 2025, Anticipated Mass, and on September 28, 2025, Sunday. The proceeds will go directly to support our brothers and sisters in need in Masbate.”
Legazpi Diocese
The Diocese of Legazpi likewise declared that its second collection for Tadâ this Sunday, September 28, including the anticipated Masses on Saturday, would be set aside for aid to the Diocese of Masbate.
“By giving generously, you are directly helping our brothers and sisters in Masbate who are struggling with loss, damage, and disruption caused by the storm,” the diocese said. “Your offering will be remitted through our diocesan channels, to be sent as assistance as early as we can. Let us come together in faith and solidarity. Your generosity will bring hope and concrete help where it is most needed,” the diocese said.
Virac Diocese
In Virac, also an island diocese, Bishop Manolo de los Santos announced that “as a concrete expression of our solidarity and Christian charity, a special second collection will be made in all Masses on Sunday, September 28, 2025. The proceeds of this collection will be sent to the Diocese of Masbate to extend our prayerful and material support to our brothers and sisters in need.”
Daet Diocese
Bishop Herman G. Abecede of Daet also issued a circular calling for all parishes and quasi-parishes to take part in the initiative.
“In the spirit of Christian solidarity and communion and as we offer our prayers and sacrifices for the victims of typhoon Ompong, I am directing that a second collection during all Masses be made in all the parishes and quasi-parishes of the Diocese of Daet this coming Sunday, September 28, 2025,” he said. “The proceeds of this collection will be sent to the Diocese of Masbate to assist them in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.”
Archdiocese of Caceres
The Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, under the Archdiocese of Caceres and the oldest church in the Bicol Region, also appealed for help.
“MASBATE NEEDS OUR HELP! As we give thanks for being spared from the wrath of Tropical Storm Ompong, we join the faithful of Masbate as they strive to rebuild,” the cathedral said.
“Let us be a true Mother Church to them! If you can, donations may be sent to the accounts of Caritas Masbate, listed in the photo.”
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