A couple of weeks ago, typhoons Pedring (International name: Nesat) followed by Typhoon Quiel hit the Philippines one after another causing much damage to Central Luzon & Nueva Ecija. According to Inquirer, about 334,000 families were affected in the region, Bulacan being the worst hit province due to two rivers overflowed causing much damage to homes and livelihood in the area.
I had the rare priviledge of assisting Worldvision in the distribution of relief goods affected families in the area of Brgy. Sta Lucia in Calumpit, Bulacan. A large part of the road leading to the baranggay was still flooded and had been impassable for most vehicles for over a week. We had to ride military and dump trucks in order to pass through the thigh-high flood
When we got to the area of Brgy Sta Lucia, the flood had already subsided but I heard that the families there were unable to eat for about a week. Fortunately, Worldvision reached out to them as soon as they could. About 2,350 families received rice, canned goods & water. I was deeply touched when one mother asked to kiss and hug me as a gesture of thanks. It's gentle moments like that I value the most.
I'm amazed at how these survivors can still put on a smile inspite of what they have been through. I got the chance to talk to some of them & have heard of stories of the flood reaching to higher than human height. Families had to stay two days at the rooftop; they had no food for a week. One grandma even had a 10 day old baby with her. Three homes were washed out by the flood. I was inspired when one mother shared, "Di bale na ang gamit, napupundar iyon. Pasalamat na lang sa Diyos at buhay kami." So, amazed that in spite of that these people have been through, they can still manage to be grateful and have faith that somehow by God's grace, they will recover what they have lost.
There are still families that need help out there, families that need to rebuild their homes, their livelihood and their lives. If you wish to extend help, you may send your donations in cash or kind to Worldvision and click this link. http://www.worldvision.org.ph/stories/help-typhoon-survivors-now
Here's video of our relief distribution: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3_IfR1ZGK4&feature=share
God bless you for your generous hearts.
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