Philippine Flooding Update 8/21/12
Heavy rains and massive floods induced by the southwest monsoon brought memories of the disaster wrought by typhoon Ondoy in September 2009, but many of those who battled the killer floods observed that the catastrophe that hit City Capital (NCR) and other provinces in Luzon on August 7 and 8 was far worse because while Ondoy killed hundreds, the area affected by last week’s disaster was wider and the number of victims higher.
Filipino resilience is being tested by the continues rainfall after the torrential rains brought by typhoon Saola (Gener) and the southwest monsoon that resulted to massive flooding in most part of Metro Manila and nearby provinces in the last two weeks. Another Tropical Storm (Helen) threatens to enhance the southwest monsoon again, terrifying communities still submerged in floodwaters and residents drying out their homes.
The roads in some areas were like rivers. People have to use boats to move around. Almost all the roads and alleys are flooded.
For several days, which the weather bureau called a phenomenon of “eleven days of non-stop rain” huge volume of rain submerge the metropolis and neighboring provinces causing number of deaths and injuries, including destroyed dwellings.
As we have mentioned in our previous report, we were able to provide food to suffice the immediate needs of our sponsored families. As of this time, we are receiving and hearing cases of beneficiaries having diseases which are feasible due to the dirty floodwaters and huge garbage that were drawn from the floods. Maybe we could request for medical assistance to meet the health needs of our beneficiaries which gradually arises as the aftermath of the calamity.
Just like other offices and organizations, both public and private, the Grace Family Helper Project and Church of God main office in Tondo Manila were closed due to the deep flooding that caused the shut-down of our communication and electronic lines. Our office computer, tables, cabinets and other office materials were also soaked in dirty water since the flood happened at 5 o’clock in the morning. Even the houses and household materials of the staff of Grace Family Helper Project were also soaked and damaged by the flood that remained for two days.
Like many catastrophes that happened, the devastating effect of the massive flooding is finally starting to get back to normal. It is time to start anew and leave the memories of disaster behind. But the inspiring stories of unlikely alliances, the generosity of the human spirit, and the tireless work to relieve the suffering will go on. Saying thank you may not be enough to express gratitude but the prayers that we lift up to God may gratify the hearts of the loving and kind-hearted people who unconditionally lend their hands during these unfortunate times.
May our partnership in Ministry be stronger than ever and lead us more to achieving together our common and shared goals and objectives.
Dr. Ofelia L. Viray