Global K-pop powerhouse ENHYPEN, in partnership with their agency Belift Lab, announced Thursday a donation of 100 million won ($68,200) to support flood relief efforts in the Philippines.
“We became aware of the recent severe flooding affecting many communities across the Philippines, a country that has long been close to our hearts,” ENHYPEN said through a press release.
Belift Lab, a subsidiary of HYBE Labels, told The Korea Times that the donation will primarily be used for flood relief efforts across various communities in the northern Philippine province of Bulacan, one of the worst-hit areas during typhoon season.
Bulacan also “holds a special place in the group’s history,” Belift Lab said. In March, ENHYPEN played one of their first major stadium concerts in Southeast Asia as part of their “WALK THE LINE” world tour at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bulacan. The group is also one of the most popular bands in the Philippines, clinching ambassadorships for major local brands.
“We wanted to offer our support, even in a small way, and sincerely hope the contributions will be used to help those in need and assist in the ongoing recovery efforts. Our hearts are with the local community and fans during this challenging time,” the group added.
Belift Lab said the donation aims to “provide relief to residents affected by the recent severe flooding, helping to aid recovery initiatives and community rebuilding efforts.”
“The Philippines is where ENHYPEN held their first stadium concert in Southeast Asia, and it remains a place of deep significance to both the group and our team. We hope our donation will provide meaningful help to those affected by the recent floods,” the agency said.
The donation will be delivered through nongovernmental organization Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, in partnership with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, the country’s major private sector coordinator for disaster management.
The Philippines is currently under a national state of calamity with multiple typhoons causing severe flooding in the past months, leaving millions displaced all over the archipelago. Earlier this month, around 142 people died from Typhoon Kalmaegi in the country’s central province of Cebu.
On Monday, Korean actor Lee Jong-suk announced the cancellation of his fan meeting in the capital Manila, citing safety concerns amid nationwide protests related to a flood-control corruption scandal that has rocked the country.
Hundreds of thousands have joined weekly protests in the Philippines calling for accountability, as reports of “ghost” projects of flood mitigation infrastructure showed billions of dollars in stolen public funds. Reports of substandard flood control projects are currently under investigation in several areas, including Bulacan.
