What was meant to be a peaceful Easter Sunday—an occasion for reflection, family, and faith—turned into a day of devastation for six families in Poblacion 3, Hamtic, Antique. Around 5:00 PM on April 20, 2025, a sudden fire swept through their neighborhood, reducing homes to ashes in a matter of minutes. Panic replaced prayer, and celebration turned into grief. Five families lost their homes entirely, left with nothing but the clothes on their backs and the weight of starting over.
As the affected families began to face the unimaginable task of rebuilding their lives, hope arrived in an unexpected form.
Marking its 38th founding anniversary with the theme “Working Together, Growing Stronger!”, the National Irrigation Administration Employees Association for Solidarity and Progress (NIAEASP) of Antique IMO chose to honor the occasion not just with celebration, but with compassion.
In a meaningful act of solidarity, NIA Antique Irrigation Management Office (IMO) extended heartfelt support to the victims of the fire. Led by Division Manager Engr. Bernard N. Castellano, the NIA Antique IMO, brought the true spirit of their anniversary into the heart of the community. Employees came together to donate essential goods and offer much-needed assistance, showing that when people unite for a common cause, even small gestures can bring comfort and restore dignity.
One of the fire victims, overwhelmed with emotion, “Wara gid namon gina-ekspektar nga may bulig nga magahalin sa NIA. Sangka bulan ron ang nagligad halin kang trahedya kag kada adlaw nagaantos kami—wara ti ulian, wara ti kasiguruhan, kag kabudlay gid sa pagpangita kang pagkaon kag kinahanglanon. Pero kang naman-an namon nga may bulig halin sa inyo, nakabatyag liwat kami kang paglaum. Bahol gid ang amon pasalamat sa opisina kang Antique IMO kag sa tanan nga empleyado nga nagbulig kanamon sa tunga kang kasakit.”, Elidio Oliveros said with heartfelt sincerity.
This year’s anniversary serves as a powerful reminder that growth isn’t only about professional milestones, but also about humanity. Through unity, empathy, and action, NIAEASP exemplifies what it means to grow stronger—not alone, but together.
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