Post-Yolanda Thoughts

Today's coffee: 1/4 cup milk, one teaspoon sugar, 3/4 freshly brewed Bon Vivant French Vanilla

Since Yolanda hit the Philippines, my timelines have been flooded with both positive and negative news on the matter. I have my fair share of stories posted but somehow I shared more on Twitter. But whatever the case, you cannot deny the fact that you are inhumane if you feel nothing about it.

My memories of Leyte cannot compare to those who has families and close friends there. My memories of Leyte was that of a fresh graduate thrown to a province for a research. This naive, little girl who wanted to make a difference and who heard stories of students studying under UP's ladderized program. I went around Palo and its neighboring towns to interview health centers. I stayed alone in Robinsons Tacloban for my off hours. I journeyed to Rafael's Farm only to realize I have no way of going back except riding with the staff on a truck. I came to admire UP SHS for its program. I interviewed people who are passionate in making a difference for their provinces. That trip was when I felt truly independent. I wanted to see more of the Philippines. So right now, it's really hard to stop the tears when you see photos and read stories about the typhoon.

I hope people continue their support for the provinces. Not just the usual band-aid help but long term plans to help them live a life again. It may not be the same life with the same loved ones but at least to have the hope that something better is coming along. Despite the pouring clothes and food donations, these people would need a livelihood. I remember one article that said the fishermen wanted boats than food as donations. Boats cost more but can help them rise faster. I was glad to see that trauma counselors are now being deployed. A child should not be haunted his/her whole life with such tragedy. If it was possible, I would just erase all those images of dead bodies from their memories.

Philippines need more long term solutions. The Philippines need policy makers and rulers who look for sustainable development. Because let's face it, storms will continue to come and a part of our country will suffer once again. As the saying goes, "it wasn't raining when Noah built the ark". We need local versions of Noah today.