Super-Typhoon Yolanda Victims are Calling for Help

November 8, 2013, a dreadful day for the Filipinos especially those living in the southern regions. It was the day that the super-typhoon Yolanda (international codename:Haiyan) struck the Philippines. Days before its expected landfall, early warnings have been issued by concerned government agencies for it might develop into a super-typhoon. I closely monitored the storm signal on TV and on the Internet because I know that my loved ones in Sorsogon (Bicol Region) will be affected by the typhoon. I did not report for work on Friday, to closely keep in touch with them. Thank’s God, they were spared by the wrath of Yolanda. The mango tree in our backyard was uprooted  and our roof needs to be repaired as soon as possible. 

I witnessed how fast the floodwater upsurged through the live TV coverage until the lines of communication was cut. It was only Sunday, that’s two days after the most devastating typhoon occured, when I learned how widespread the damage is. According to the reports, Tacloban City  and Basey, Samar are the worst hit areas. I was speechless, depressed, and I prayed for the survivors who lost their loved ones, properties, and means of livelihood. They really need our help. 

Ironically, there are several reports that search and rescue, and relief operations is slow-moving. In fact, the media and the netizens are calling the attention of the government officials especially President Aquino to expedite the relief operations as many of the survivors are experiencing grief and hunger. Even the neighboring LGUs have no supplies anymore. They need food, clothing, temporary shelter, medicine. They need our compassion, they need our prayers. 

They are many ways to help. 

Contrary to the negative reports about Iglesia Cristo that allegedly refused to open its doors to the victims during the occurence of typhoon Yolanda, relief assistance, health care and other immediate services are continously given to the victims of disasters. Repacking of relief good are being conducted in New Era University (Quezon City), and in other center in Cebu. This is done through the supervision of Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, Inc. 

DSWD, Philippine Red Cross, ABS-CBN Foundation, GMA Foundation, Ayala Foundation, and Gawad Kalinga ar just some of the many channels for your donations. Visit this LINK for the complete list of open relief operation center, compiled by rappler.com.

Here in our office, we will be donating clothes, blankets and towels for our officemates’ families in Ormoc and Capiz. 

Let us not lose hope, we can recover from this tragic phenomenon through strong faith in God! Bangon, mga Kababayan ko!!! 

Let us help in every little way we can. Use these hashtags for your Tweets and Facebook posts.