It's just another storm, after all it's the Philippines... the country uses up all the letters in the alphabet to name typhoons annually. But the typhoon everyone thought "normal" - there were no Milenyo-like strong winds - took everyone by surprise. It left the Philippines drowning, desperately gasping for air.
Tropical storm Ondoy (international codename: Ketsana) has damaged the Philippines in ways we did not imagine. Ondoy caught the Filipino people, particularly those who are living in the National Capital Region and its neighboring provinces, by surprise leaving 341 mm of water in the streets in just six hours of rain. (The average rainfall for an entire month is 391 mm.) It's the heaviest rainfall in 42 years. The number of casualties has risen to 100 and the damage brought to infrastructure and agriculture is over 100M pesos. The photos from home are heartbreaking and gut-wrenching.
Makati underpass.
Araneta Avenue.
Marikina.Filipino people, we know what to do, yes? BAYANIHAN.
Kababayans in the Philippines, here's how you can help directly: Disaster Relief Google Spreadsheet. This spreadsheet compiles relief drop off points, private efforts, hotline numbers and establishments that have opened their doors to accommodate relief goods. It is comprehensive and updated. Share this link to everyone.
For kabayans in Saudi Arabia, Migrante KSA has launched a relief drive. It's probably the most convenient way for us, OFWs in KSA, to help especially when giving clothes and goods. You may also send in your cash donations through your families and relatives in the Philippines.
For those who feel helpless in these times due to personal circumstances, there's always a way to help:
Photo credit: markgosingtian.tumblr.comThere are many lessons and insights that we can get from what happened, but right now, let's focus on keeping the Philippines above water.
PS. Mary, we're hope you and your family/relatives are okay in Bulacan. Stay safe.
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