MANILA -- Maine Mendoza is using her wide social media reach for good as she launches an online fund drive to help Filipinos affected by the lockdown in Luzon because of the novel coronavirus.
The actress and TV host asked for donations on Facebook, saying she will send P1,000 per household for groceries and other essentials.
"Consider yourself blessed if, despite all, you can purchase food and sanitation supplies (even hoard!) for your homes. But what about those workers who live on a day-to-day basis? Now that they are obliged not to go to work, how can they survive?" she asked.
"This leads me to start this drive. I will be launching my DoNation Drive to help in my own little way, those who are greatly affected by this catastrophe," she continued. "I know how hard it is for these people nowadays to sustain their living, so I decided to share as much as I can to them."
Mendoza directed her social media followers to a mobile number and e-mail address for their donations, saying any amount "no matter how big or small will go a long way."
She also promised to "personally facilitate all the donations" and to "try my best to accommodate as many people as I can."
Read her full statement below:
In a follow-up post, Mendoza said PUV drivers, construction workers, street and market vendors, and other laborers who are unable to provide proof of employment may also avail of the donations.
"Kahit ano po ang trabaho niyo, puwedeng-puwede po kayo mag-send ng e-mail," she assured.