In observance of Independence Day—a historic occasion that calls Filipinos to stand together in unity—Color Your World Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Casino Plus, has announced a major mobilization effort to deliver both short-term relief and long-term rehabilitation to earthquake victims in Mindanao.
Through its flagship disaster resilience pillar, “Project Bigkis,” the foundation is actively complementing ongoing government and partner-led disaster response efforts. The initiative aims to deliver immediate, coordinated humanitarian assistance to thousands of families displaced by the powerful magnitude-7.8 earthquake that struck offshore Sarangani earlier this week.
“Our hearts are with our brothers and sisters in Mindanao during this devastating time,” said Evan Spytma, Chief Executive Officer of Casino Plus. “When disaster strikes, the truest measure of who we are—as organizations and as people—is not what we say, but how quickly and meaningfully we show up. We are committed to acting swiftly, providing temporary shelter, essential supplies, and the immediate support families need to begin healing.”
To address urgent on-the-ground needs, Color Your World Foundation is distributing over PhP 3-million worth of emergency packages. The deployment includes at least 150 livable tents, nearly 1,500 hygiene and medicine kits, over 1,000 solar-powered lamps, and a steady supply of potable drinking water targeting the hardest-hit areas in General Santos City and Sarangani Province.
“‘Bigkis’ means bond. And that is exactly what this response is about—binding resources, binding partners, and binding people together around the families who need us most,” explained Michael Angelo Horfilla, Director for Corporate Social Responsibility at Casino Plus. “No family should have to face the aftermath of a disaster alone. Casino Plus is here to recolor the lives of Mindanaoans—one family, one community, and one act of compassion at a time.”
Looking beyond immediate relief, Color Your World Foundation has established a long-term commitment to ensure the sustainable recovery of vulnerable communities. Recognizing the impending start of the new academic year, the foundation has pledged to rebuild damaged classrooms, ensuring that thousands of affected learners and teachers have access to safe, functional educational spaces.
Additionally, the foundation will roll out localized livelihood programs designed to equip heavily impacted communities with the specific skills, tools, and economic opportunities necessary to rebuild their lives and secure their futures.
“Casino Plus’ commitment goes beyond immediate relief. We are in this for the long term—helping communities rebuild, recover, and rediscover the hope, dignity, and joy that define them,” Spytma added. “Together with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), we will work to ensure sustained support for the Color Your World Foundation as we continue our mission of helping create more Makulay (colorful) Lives for Filipinos.”
