Gamers convert virtual $44.6k into real-life donations for japan aid

Even the gaming community has pitched in to help victims of the March 11 quake and tsunami in Japan, converting some $44,607.50 (P1.933 million) in virtual cash into real-life donations. The EVE Online Community said the amount was raised through its "PLEX for Good" charity program in the last two weeks of March, ending last March 31. "The drive, which ended on March 31, 2011, was extremely successful, and we are pleased to report that $44,607.50 was raised by players during the two-week period," it said in a blog entry. It said the donations included 2,497 PLEX (Pilot License Extension, or game time) through 665 contracts; and 18 ISKs (digital currency) donations. EVE said 2,549 PLEXs were collected, and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross in the name of the "EVE Online Community." "The efforts of these players and countless others continue to demonstrate the passion, care and concern the EVE Online community has for those in desperate need," EVE said. PLEX for Good is an ongoing charitable program initiated by the players of EVE Online. EVE said past drives have assisted the victims of the Haiti earthquake and excessive flooding in Pakistan. "To date, EVE Online players have donated over $108,000 USD (over 6100 PLEX) to those in need via this program, with almost $155,000 USD being donated by EVE Online players to charity since 2004," it said. — TJD, GMA News