Krishna Balaram Ashram Team distributes prasadam at Sto. Niño National High School evacuation station.

The severe aftermath of Typhoon Gaemi, one of the most powerful typhoons to hit the Asia-Pacific region in nearly a decade, has caused extensive flooding and landslides in the Philippines. In response to this disaster, the Krishna Balarama Ashram in Manila has acted swiftly and compassionately, providing crucial aid to the affected communities.

Typhoon Gaemi, also known as Typhoon Carina, brought heavy rains to the Philippines, and the capital city of Manila and surrounding areas experienced significant flooding. With over 600,000 people displaced and at least 13 lives lost, the situation has been extremely challenging. Balarama Das, a dedicated volunteer at the Krishna Balarama Ashram, shared an update on their relief efforts. “This prasadam distribution was conducted two days after Typhoon Carina,” Balarama shared. “On the first day, we went to an evacuation center and distributed around 300 to 400 packs of prasadam, rice, and sabji. And then on the second day, we distributed over 500 packs of stir-fried noodles.”

The impact of Typhoon Gaemi has been particularly devastating for communities near rivers, where floodwaters reached dangerous levels and, in some places, up to ten feet. Many residents lost their homes and belongings without essential items, including food and cooking utensils. The Krishna Balarama Ashram quickly mobilized to provide hot meals and support. “The entire Metro Manila was flooded, and the water reached knee or neck-deep levels. In some areas, it even reached 10 feet,” Balarama described. “Many people lost their belongings and furniture. Most of the people have nothing to eat and no utensils to cook with. So, the first thing they need is cooked food.”

Despite not having a specific budget for such emergencies, the Krishna Balarama Ashram community came together, pooling their resources to fund the relief efforts. “We decided to contribute whatever extra money we had personally,” Balarama explained. “We used it to provide immediate help to the flood victims for as long as we could sustain.”

The Krishna Balarama Ashram’s volunteers dedicated their time and effort to distribute over a thousand plates of prasadam and essential pamphlets about chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, aiming to provide not only physical sustenance but also spiritual solace. “Fortunately, we have some dedicated volunteers who are always ready to help us. They dedicated their time and effort to carry out these operations,” Balarama noted.

In addition to prasadam distribution, the ashram also engaged in Harinam and distributed nearly a thousand pamphlets, spreading messages of hope and faith. “We distributed small pamphlets about chanting the Hare Krishna mantra,” Balarama said. “Around 800 to 1,000 pamphlets were distributed.”

As the situation continues to develop, the Krishna Balarama Ashram remains committed to extending its support. Their remarkable efforts have provided immediate relief and demonstrated the power of community solidarity and spiritual compassion in times of crisis.

The Krishna Balaram Ashram in Manila plans to continue its aid operations and expects to make a greater impact in the coming days. Their dedication is recognized as a beacon of hope for those affected by Typhoon Gaemi, demonstrating the significant Krishna Conscious impact that collective effort and heartfelt service can make in the face of adversity.

To assist or learn more about this noble effort, devotees can visit and follow the Krishna Balaram Ashram on Facebook, or contact Balaram Das via email.