TACLOBAN, Philippines – Justin Bieber flew to Tacloban, the most devastated area in the Philippines due to typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), to help in relief operations. He tweeted from his official Twitter account: “most touching trip of my life.” Smart Communications, PLDT and others have helped in making it possible for Justin Bieber to visit Tacloban.
It can be recalled that Justin Bieber was nearly declared as a persona-non-grata when he ‘mocked’ Pambansang Kamao, Manny Pacquiao, after Pacquiao was knocked down by Juan Manuel Marquez. Many Filipinos got mad at Bieber then. How dare he make fun of – what many consider – as a Filipino icon.
With Bieber‘s recent visit though, Filipinos have come to ‘love’ him again for his apparent effort to help Haiyan survivors in the country.
Justin’s Give Back to Philippines project has reportedly raised more than $3 million; He announced on social media that he would hang out in the studio to whoever would win while helping in his Philippine campaign.
“I’m launching a very special campaign for the Typhoon Haiyan relief efforts… help me give back to the Philippines and you’ll be entered for a chance to hang out with me in the studio http://prizeo.com/justin #GiveBackPhilippines
Justin Bieber also tweeted:
Justin Bieber @justinbieber 1h
Help and get involved. I saw the devastation first hand today. They need our help. #GiveBackPhilippines here – http://Www.prizeo.com/Justin
“Flew to the affected areas in the Philippines, please do what you can to help. #givebackphilippines”
“That was the way to end a tour. We can all make a change and help. Please get involved. #pray4phillipines #GiveBackPhilippines”
“About to go perform the last #believetour show. The real last one and the most important one of the tour. #GiveBackPhilippines”
“#pray4philippines most touching trip of my life. #givebackphilippines”
“Special show in the affected areas #pray4philippines. you’ve changed my life thank you… “
The typhoon Haiyan survivors had a genuine treat with Justin Bieber singing for them, playing basketball with the youth and interacting with the victims.
Bieber’s latest tweet included some Tagalog words:
“Help others #pray4philippines #GiveBackPhilippines you can make a difference. Salamat. Mahal Kita.” (Thank you. I love you)”