Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Donates ₱200 Million to Typhoon and Earthquake Victims in Cebu: “You Are Not Alone in This World”
In an extraordinary display of generosity and global solidarity, Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has donated ₱200 million pesos (approximately USD $3 million) to support relief efforts for victims of the recent typhoon and earthquake that devastated parts of Cebu, Philippines.
The seven-time Olympic medalist and one of the greatest sprinters in history made the donation through her Pocket Rocket Foundation, which has previously focused on supporting youth in Jamaica. This marks the foundation’s largest international relief effort to date.
A Heartfelt Act of Compassion
In a statement released Monday, Fraser-Pryce said:
> “What happened in Cebu touched my heart. These people have lost homes, families, and livelihoods. If I can help even a little, then I must.”
According to local authorities, the 7.1 magnitude earthquake, followed by a category 4 typhoon last month, left over 100,000 displaced, with major damage to infrastructure, water supply, and schools.
Shelly-Ann’s donation will be channeled toward emergency shelter, food supplies, medical aid, and the rebuilding of schools in rural Cebu. The funds are being managed in coordination with the Philippine Red Cross and local government units to ensure transparency and speed of deployment.
A 20-Word Statement That Stunned the Nation
During a live-streamed virtual address from Kingston, Fraser-Pryce ended her announcement with a powerful and unexpected 20-word message that has since gone viral across Filipino social media:
> “Filipinos are not forgotten. Your strength is unmatched. The world sees you, loves you, and stands with you — always.”
The emotional message sparked a wave of online gratitude, with hashtags like #ThankYouShellyAnn and #CebuStrong trending on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Facebook.
Leaders and Citizens React
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his gratitude in an official statement:
> “On behalf of the Filipino people, we thank Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce for her immense kindness. Her compassion shows us that the human spirit knows no borders.
Local residents in Cebu also voiced their appreciation.
> “We’ve never heard of someone from so far away caring this much. She gave us more than money—she gave us hope,” said Leah Navarro, a schoolteacher in Toledo City.
A Champion Beyond the Track
Fraser-Pryce, known as the “Pocket Rocket,” is no stranger to overcoming adversity. Born and raised in Waterhouse, one of Kingston’s toughest neighborhoods, she has risen to become an icon of excellence, perseverance, and humility.
Her actions in Cebu prove that her legacy goes beyond gold medals and world records. In a time of crisis, she has shown the true heart of a champion—not just on the track, but in the service of others.
For those wishing to contribute to relief efforts, visit www.pocketrocketfoundation.org.ph or the Philippine Red Cross at www.redcross.org.ph.
		
		
		
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