I was about to compose a post for Pasko (Christmas) but as many of you may know tragedy has struck our beloved Philippines. Typhoon Sendong (also called Typhoon Washi) has slammed into Northern Mindanao causing massive flooding. At the time it passed over Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City, the sites of the greatest devastation, it had already been downgraded to a tropical storm. Unfortunately in this part of the Philippines it is extremely rare for a typhoon to strike and as a result many of the people were unprepared. To further complicate matters the storm roared in at night while most were sleeping. Whole families were washed away as they lay in their beds. At this point in time there are an estimated 650+ who have lost their lives and another 800+ unaccounted for with the most loss of life occurring in the two cities. However, these are only estimates and the actual loss of life may be much higher, especially when they begin to search the outlying areas of the provinces. Other provinces also experienced the wrath of Sendong throughout the Visayas and Palawan.
This is a time when we need to offer our prayers for those who have suffered the loss of family members, loved ones, friends and neighbors. It’s also a time for us all to come together and help. Help with the basics that are needed by the survivors as well as the restoration of the areas devastated. Much, much work will need to be done in the future but if I have learned one thing it is to never underestimate the resilience of the Pilipino people. When others would give up and turn back the Pilipino will press on with life and find a way to overcome. However a helping hand is always welcome. If so inclined, give what you can to help these victims of nature to recover. You can help right now by clicking on the link below to the Philippine Red Cross. God Bless.
