The Filipino people are now reeling from the massive destruction wrought by Typhoon Ondoy.  As of October 6th, 295 people have been killed, over one million people are displaced and almost four million people have been affected. 

Devastation to the country’s infrastructure and agriculture is estimated at approximately P9 billion with the CALABARZON region (comprised of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon provinces) recording the worst damages.

During this traumatic period, I sympathize greatly with all of those affected.  Like many, I will always remember the images of babies and children trapped on rooftops awaiting rescue.  I recall the pictures of the elderly scrambling to hang onto makeshift floating devices and I hear the anguish of the families still searching for loved ones.

But as well, I see the heroic efforts of ordinary Filipinos to help their neighbours.  In the Philippines and abroad, I know that many organizations and individuals are acting fast to address this great calamity.   

In Vancouver, our office has already received numerous reports of the different groups undertaking fundraising efforts in behalf of various non-government and non-profit organizations.  As such, we are calling on all of our kababayans and all concerned Canadians to also answer the cry of the Filipino people during this time of their great need.

For your reference, my Community Office has compiled a list of local groups that have contacted me regarding their fundraising drives.   I strongly encourage everyone to make a donation to one of these groups. You can view the list by following this link.

There are also upcomming fundraising events that you can view on our events page.

The British Columbia Youth Parliament’s 81st Parliament will be held in Victoria at the Provincial Legislative Chambers from December 27 to 31, 2009. The Youth Parliament is a province-wide non-partisan organization for young people ages 16 to 21. It teaches citizenship skills through participation in the December parliamentary session and in community service activities throughout the year.

You can register for the Youth Parliament online at http://www.bcyp.org/. I highly encourage you to apply, or to pass along the application to someone who you think will be interested.

- Mable

Yesterday, I rose in the Legislature to speak out on the government’s plans to introduce All-Day Kindergarten. While a step in the right direction, it flies in the face of this government’s complete lack of commitment to comprehensive childcare. Most recently, they have announced that they are cutting the Minor Capital Grants for childcare facility repairs.  I will continue to fight these cuts, and work with you to hold this government accountable. You can watch my speech here:

Mable Speaks Out About Childcare Cuts