In a stunning testament to the power of social media and collective efforts, a neophyte donation drive has successfully raised funding for worthwhile causes amidst COVID-19 and the Enhanced Community Quarantine. The Bigay Bente movement which was launched on Saturday, March 21, quickly gained traction and has earned Php 20,142.54 in donations in the span of just two days (as of this writing).

What makes the campaign different from other fundraisers is its inexpensiveness for donors. Only asking for contributions as small as Php 20, the donation drive has earned the support and praise of many students and young professionals. “Through Bigay Bente, parang ang dali dali na makatulong sa iba and alam mong kahit maliit na halaga, malaki ang matutulungan.” said Trisha Oconer, an OMNI Aviation employee who took part in the movement.

According to the Bigay Bente official page, the initiative was organized for people wishing to extend help to those affected by the current situation in the country and yet feel that they have no means. Bigay Bente connects donors and their “ambag” to three
beneficiaries: Kaya Natin! Movement, Power in Her Story, and the Central Luzon Disaster Response Network.

The donation drive is an initiative of three women hailing from the Communication Arts course namely, Jhuniella Salalac, Patricia Manalo and Carmel Abeleda. #BigayBente is reacheable through Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/bigaybente/), Instagram and Twitter (@BigayBente). Donations are accepted via BPI, GCash and Paymaya.