A post-pandemic OMASC marches on

THE Association of Oriental Mindoro, dba OMASC, is back in full force and looking ahead to an even more vibrant and productive existence than before.

Although it didn’t stop its annual charitable donation of hygiene kits and school supplies to school children in public elementary schools in the province during the pandemic, the members felt they could have done more during the series of flooding, landslides, and typhoons that destroyed lives and properties in the last three years. The pandemic made it harder for the group to fulfill its mission.

Nevertheless, when Typhoon Quinta sent the province under a state of calamity in October 2020, OMASC came to the aid of the victims by sending food supplies and other necessities. In 2021, the towns of Baco and Naujan were hit with earthquake and flooding. OMASC appealed to officers and members and quickly raised thousands of dollars to aid the victims.

When an oil tanker carrying 800,000 liters of industrial oil capsized off the coast of Naujan, Oriental Mindoro on February 28, 2023, the members quickly launched an aggressive effort to raise funds and send aids to the most affected areas.

In November 2022, during a visit to Mindoro, founder and Board of Director member Hermie Maramot met with the Philippine Red Cross Mindoro Chapter Administrator, Guada de Leon for possible volunteer opportunities. Miss de Leon informed him of bloodletting and feeding programs that welcome volunteers to help in any way they can. She also mentioned the Blood Samaritan project the Chapter launched to raise funds to provide free blood to poor patients who could not afford the Php1,800 cost of one bag and asked if OMASC could help.

Upon his return to the U.S., the matter was brought to the attention of OMASC president Angelito “Boyette” Martinez, who in turn told the officers and members. As a result, a check for Php55,500, the equivalent of $1,000 in donations collected, was handed to the Red Cross by Hermie Maramot when he visited on June 13, 2023. During the following two weeks, OMASC members who were with Hermie also joined the team of volunteers who served in the bloodletting and feeding activities.

OMASC’s perseverance in the face of adversity and its continuing commitment to its mission makes it deserving of the 501(c)(3) status the IRS granted. All donations to OMASC are tax-deductible. On September 23, 2023, OMASC will hold its 30th Anniversary Ball. For tickets to the event, please call Jasmin Maravilla at (661) 202-9870. To become a member, please call Mila Maramot at (626) 554-6040.