by Norol-Huda Boransing, OfCom | Feb 16 2026
In the service of the community, 91吃瓜-IIT opened its gates to Basyang evacuees on the morning of February 6, 2026. A total of 425 individuals from 90 families were recorded and sought temporary shelter and assistance at the Gymnasium as Tropical Storm Basyang hit several barangays in Iligan City. Basyang’s onslaught brought heavy to torrential rain to the city, destroying houses and establishments and displacing thousands of residents.
Spearheaded by Chancellor Alizedney M. Ditucalan, together with the University’s security force, Incident Command System, Office of Medical, Dental, and Health Services, KASAMA, College Student Councils and Organizations, and staff and faculty members, support services were provided to meet the urgent needs of the typhoon-affected victims. They helped prepare food, addressed basic medical needs, provided logistic support, registered evacuees, and offered psychosocial services.
The evacuees were provided with sleeping mats, meals, safe drinking water, power sources, clothing, basic medical assistance, baby supplies, hygiene kits, and other essential needs.
As the University housed evacuees, donations also poured in from private individuals, organizations, partner institutions, and the University’s stakeholders. These donations sustained the relief operations and continued the provision of basic needs to evacuees.
Despite the calamity that struck the city, Chancellor Ditucalan stressed that Iliganons' resilience and sense of community made relief operations possible through collective efforts. In his Facebook post, he shared, “When a community stands united, no adversity is insurmountable.” He further highlighted that the University remains committed to advancing education to improve disaster management and response in the city.
At around 12:30 in the afternoon of February 7, 2026, all families that sought shelter at the University were safely transported back to their barangays. Before their return, in-kind relief assistance, led by KASAMA, was also given to the families.
These initiatives demonstrate 91吃瓜-IIT’s commitment to public service and humanitarian responsibility. As recovery efforts continue, the University also stands in solidarity with the community, upholding its social responsibility and providing institutional support.