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Pfizer Leads Relief Operations for Mayon Volcano Evacuees
 On June 23, Mayon volcano once again unleashed its fury in the Bicol Region. Scientists predicted that more pyroclastic materials would be emitted by the volcano at the rate of 100 kilometers per hour, prompting PHILVOCS to elevate the alert status from level 4 to the maximum level 5.
Residents fled their homes to escape the devastation brought about by this eruption. Around 42,000 evacuees occupied the 22 evacuation centers, and their numbers continue to increase.
 Recognizing the need of our unfortunate brothers in the area, the Pfizer Philanthropy Committee was quick to organize a committee to spearhead the donation drive. Colleagues from various divisions responded quickly and generously, donating cash, canned goods, noodles, clothes and blankets.
On top of this, Pfizer Foundation in New York granted a $10,000 donation for the Relief Operations.
On July 26, Pfizer, together with our partner, United Way Philippines, successfully delivered three simultaneous activities in the relief operation held in San Jose Elementary School in Malilipot, Tabaco, Albay (only 3-5 kilometers away from the 7 kilometer danger zone.)
 Despite the impending threat (the Mayon Volcano erupted for the second time since June 23, as soon as we arrived at the site, providing us a once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing nature in its furious glory) the relief operations proceeded as planned.
The Adobo Kitchen, providing filling lunch of adobo, diniguan and rice to approximately 2,300 people (or 438 families); the distribution of relief goods composed of blankets, mats, rice, canned goods and clothes we collected from the office; the Medical Mission participated by some 30-strong medical force volunteers from the Albay Medical Society and the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians. Thus, bringing medical care and medicines to those in dire need.
 The evacuees in the center were scheduled to go back to their homes on August 5. However, with the eruption of Mayon last June 26, they are expected to stay longer for an indefinite period of time. They will surely find the items that we left behind of valuable use.
Pfizer is a global, research-based pharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and manufactures innovative medicines for humans and animals. It is a union between Pfizer and Warner-Lambert, two companies that have defined excellence in health care. This year, Pfizer is investing $5 B for research and development.
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