Online map monitors evac centers that need 'Pedring' aid

An online map developed by an Ateneo-based organization, Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan (SLB), fills in potential donors with details on what evacuation centers need, an SLB official told GMA News Online on Tuesday, as Typhoon Pedring was moving away from the Philippines. Which nearby evacuation centers can we assist? How many clothes and canned goods are needed? How exactly can we help victims of Typhoon Pedring? These are just some of the information potential donors may find online. The SLB’s E-Ugnay program, a disaster management system, guides its users with information such as the evacuation centers that need their help, the number of households and individuals there, and the kinds of relief goods needed, SLB acting director Bro. Erik John Gerilla said. “By looking at the website, they can personally check how they can help," Gerilla added.

E-Ugnay displays details on evacuation centers, such as Marikina's Barangay Nangka Elementary School. (Screen grab from e-ugnay.slb.ph)

Gerilla, a Jesuit seminarian, said the SLB gathers verified data on evacuation centers from affiliated organizations, such as the Ateneo de Naga University, St. Paul University in Tuguegarao, Marikina People Power, and the social action centers in various dioceses. So far, E-Ugnay has monitored at least six evacuation centers in Metro Manila and one in Ilagan, Isabela. Most of the centers, located in Marikina City, include:

• Concepcion Integrated School (around 470 families or 2,350 individuals)
• H. Bautista Elementary School (around 300 families or 1,800 individuals)
• Malanday Elementary School (around 500 families or 1,500 individuals)
• Barangka Elementary School (around 36 families or 166 individuals)
• Barangay Nangka Elementary School (around 556 families or 2,314 individuals)
• Barangay Nangka (around 200 families or 1,000 individuals)

The online tracker is also monitoring an evacuation center in Isabela — in the Diocese of Ilagan — which is serving 2,800 families as of this posting. SLB also accepts donations and other forms of assistance through the means indicated on its website. — VS, GMA News Online