Help rebuild family-run businesses after a fire

On the morning of January 5th, a fire destroyed six small, family-run beach businesses at Small Paliton Beach, Siquijor. Three of them burned completely to the ground.

These shops have been the families’ main source of income and a central part of the local beach community since 2017.

The families affected include:

All food, drinks, equipment, and personal belongings were destroyed in the fire.

For the past three weeks, my sister and I have been staying on the island and visiting Small Paliton beach almost every day. A local dive shop uses this beach and has a close relationship with these families, they helped us carry equipment and allowed us to use the space between dives. This beach has become part of our everyday life here.

On Monday 5th of January, we went to the beach as usual around 11 am and were shocked by what we saw. Since then, I have spoken with all the families and returned every day this week to check in, help where possible.

The local community responded incredibly fast. They are resilient, supportive, and working together. Almost all of the debris has already been cleared, and they are now trying to start selling a few drinks again, just four days after the fire, to begin generating some income.

The plan moving forward

The local hostel and community Wonderland have donated wood and roofing so that at least one shop can already be finished.

Several people involved estimate that it will cost around 100 000 pesos (approximately 1 500 €) per business to rebuild permanent structures and restock supplies.

Support so far

However, there is no organized online fundraiser yet, despite many foreigners living in the area.

How the funds will be handled

This fundraiser will run for 7 days, until I leave the island. On 14th of March, I will personally hand over the collected funds in cash to the families.

I will cover all transaction and ATM fees myself, in addition to donations I have already made and ongoing help on the ground. Every donated euro will go directly to the families affected.

I know there are many people and causes around the world in need of support. Right now, I am meeting with these families every day, seeing the impact directly, and that makes it impossible not to act.

My hope is that friends and family in Sweden, Spain, and elsewhere can help me help them rebuild not only these small businesses, but also the livelihood and strong community that makes this beach so special!

Thank you for your support!

With Love

Anna