Last weekend I went to Tacloban for a very special mission: I got the chance to help survivors of Haiyan like myself. As most of you know, my family and I have moved to Cebu for the meantime, just until classes start at Tacloban this January.
Thanks to social media, I got in contact with foreigners who had the kind heart to help the survivors, even when they did not know them. After days of canvasing and tying the knots, we finally got to go to Tacloban, almost a month after we left for Cebu. My parents, together with my brother and I traveled five hours by boat and two hours by car. It was completely devastating to see the sight, the fallen trees, roofless houses and the lot. I don’t want to divulge into any other details, because I will be posting some pictures below.
Anyway, it was simply heartbreaking when we reached the town that we were meant to be helping. Their houses were half or all gone, the mountain bare of leaves and destruction was everywhere. And yet, these girls found a reason to smile when I faced them the camera.
Now let us meet Mr. Arturo. He is a father of eight, and a grandfather of many. This is his house after the storm. It has no roof, no windows, and has collapsed.
Those photos are devistating to say the least. It's so kind of you to open your heart to them and help out. You are absolutely amazing! And it's so good to see that you brought a smile to their faces.
That makes me so sad to see all the destruction & yet hopeful just as the residents are! Thank you for sharing!
At least you know for sure that the items you are collecting are going to the people who need them the most. I definitely feel for those people–the smiles on the children-well children are resilient thank heavens and hopefully their homes will be secure once again.
One of the best things we can really do is to give – it brings joy not only to them but to you as a giver as well – you have such a good heart.
Looking at all these pictures makes me so sad – to think people have to live like that. Thank you so much for sharing these and reminding us that there is still a lot of work that needs to be done!
I think it's amazing how social media can connect us. I am inspired by your compassion and heart for everything you're doing to help.
It's so amazing the destruction that comes with one of those storms. And even more amazing how long it takes to truly recover. You are so amazing for doing your best to help all of those get back on their feet. <br />We send a lot of aid from our church down there.But it is always good to remember that it's not all healed yet.
It's amazing how kids can still find a reason to smile. I hope this area continues to get the help they need.
Oh wow it's so heart wrenching to see the devastation – so amazing though how people come together when people are in need.
Those photos are devastating! Thank you for helping to spread the word about it. I hope all the victims are able to recover from the disaster quickly!
It is amazing that when people have gone through something as tragic as this, they are able to smile and push forward. It is a beautiful thing you are doing to help others. I had not heard of Oath until now, we have donated several times to organizations hoping their claims to help are legit. I will share this with my husband for the next round of donations.
That is wonderful that you are involved in the relief effort to help others. I hope 2014 meets them with new homes and stronger hope too!
That is just so very sad – the condition that the people are living in. You are doing a wonderful thing. I am wondering why more is not being done by the Red Cross or from outside donations.
WOW!! Bless you for what you did, and my heart goes out to them for what they have been through!!
What a great sweet thing you are doing. Once I'm no longer mobile I'll have to donate. Thanks for sharing their story.
Such devastation. It is wonderful that you are able to help.
What a heartbreaking situation. Thanks for sharing the information to help us donate. I hope you all raise lots of funds.
wow, that father of 8 really hasn't lost hope. So, so strong.
This is so sad to know someone lives like this.
What a beautiful post! It shows the sadness from the storm, but that they will overcome it.
OMGoodness! So sad but so sweet! I love how the little girls can smile through all this! Oath is so great for helping with the rice! Such a eye opener!
I think it is great that you volunteered to help other survivors. Especially during this time of the year, it is so important to give back and to pay it forward.
I'm tear eyed of your cause sis. God Bless you!
Thank you for sharing the pics! Such a horrible tragedy. I'm so glad to see that they are on their way to recovery.