When disaster strikes, Filipinos always find a way to come together. One way that Pinoys did this recently was through Project Yakap—a heartfelt initiative that was more than just providing relief, but a warm, filling hug for those who need it most.

In July 2025, relentless rains and floods submerged parts of Luzon, with Pampanga and Laguna among the hardest hit. Families were forced to leave their homes, seeking refuge in evacuation centers that quickly filled to capacity. For us at 8List.ph and ID8, the question was clear: How can we help?

This isn’t our first time stepping up. In 2024, we launched Project Kumot in response to the devastation of Typhoon Carina, providing blankets to bring warmth and comfort to affected families. But this time, we wanted to go further. What if we could offer not just warmth, but a hug that nourishes both body and soul? And so, Project Yakap was born.

Bayanihan in action

Project Yakap was our way to provide a tangible expression of care and compassion to those most affected by the storms, made possible by the generosity of our readers and the hard work of volunteers. Every contribution, no matter how small, became part of this collective embrace.

Donations were used to purchase ready-to-eat meals, water, and blankets. Many amplified our call to action, spreading the word far and wide. Volunteers from Angat Buhay worked tirelessly to repack donations with love and care. And to bridge the distance, Lalamove stepped in, transporting goods from our collection points to Angat Buhay’s headquarters.

Reaching those who need it most

Our partnership with Angat Buhay was crucial in ensuring these “hugs” reached the hardest-hit communities in Pampanga and Laguna. With their strong local presence and network of volunteers, they delivered targeted support to evacuation centers and affected families. Here’s what Angat Buhay shared about the impact of the initiative:

“Kasama sa mga bayang lubhang binaha dulot ng #EmongPH ang Laguna. Sa tulong ng RPC Santa Rosa, nakapaghatid tayo ng 150 food packs at hygiene kits, 3,600 bottles of water, kumot at unan, at mga damit sa mga pamilyang pansamantalang nanunuluyan sa Bay Municipal Evacuation Center sa Bay, Laguna na may 70 pamilyang apektado, Brgy. General Luna sa Siniloan na may 38 pamilya, at Brgy. Wawa sa Siniloan na may 42 pamilya. Maraming salamat sa inyong pakikipagbayanihan para sa mga kababayan nating apektado.”

A hug that brings hope

At its core, Project Yakap is a reminder of the power of bayanihan. It’s proof that when we come together, we can create something truly meaningful—a hug that warms, fills, and brings hope to those who need it most.

To everyone who contributed, shared, and supported this initiative: thank you for being part of this collective hug. Together, we’ve shown that even in the darkest times, the Filipino spirit shines bright.