Help Bring Kuya Pepe Home

My name is Manu, and I am reaching out on behalf of Pepe Quinones, his wife Ma Rica, and their 10-year-old daughter. Pepe and his family arrived in New Zealand in July last year hoping to build a better future. Pepe came on a work visa, while Ma Rica came as an international student pursuing her Master's degree and working part-time to support their family. On 4 September, Pepe experienced severe abdominal pain and was taken to the Local Doctors Medical Centre in Mt Roskill. He was immediately referred to Auckland Hospital, where CT scans and ultrasounds revealed devastating news: Stage 4 liver cancer that had already spread to his lower spine. Despite assessment by multiple specialists, treatment options were extremely limited. Pepe has since been transferred to Mercy Hospice in Ponsonby for palliative care. Far from home and facing the unimaginable, their greatest wish is to return to the Philippines so Pepe can be surrounded by family and loved ones during this difficult time. They have basic travel insurance with limited cover. Funds raised will help cover travel expenses, flights home, medical and care costs, and support for the family as they navigate the challenges ahead. Many will remember Kuya Jojit's Givealittle campaign last year, when our community came together to help during his health battle. Today, we humbly ask for that same spirit of bayanihan for Kuya Pepe and his family. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference. Maraming salamat po.