August 2012 - An unnamed deluge has hit the Philippines which have caused cases of death, damages to properties, and losses in livelihood. Around 2 million Filipinos were affected by the floods. The agricultural sector has estimated around Php 167 million in damages. Malacanang has issued a memo cancelling for work for both government and private sectors. And for businesses which needed to operate as usual, it was a difficult ordeal as most roads have become impassable due to floods.
Despite the growing fear, sparks of hope emerged as Filipinos from all walks of life started to communicate and organize relief operations via the social networks. Indeed, we are the social media capital of the world. We have learned a lot of lessons from that monster typhoon "Ondoy" which devastated the country back in 2009. This time, most Filipinos are prepared.
In the event of losses due to natural calamities, when preventive measures seem lacking, band-aid solutions are necessary. Hats off to the individuals/institutions who have initiated relief operations in a short span of time. It is very inspiring and encouraging to see that the "Bayanihan" spirit amongst Filipinos is very much alive.
The aftermath of a disaster leaves most people in emotional distraught. It makes the recovery process difficult. Where to start? How to move on? These questions are crucial at this point. While some relief operations are still on-going up to this day, we must now take strides to move forward.
Maintain your focus knowing the things that you still have rather than the material possessions which you have lost during the flood. Do a research on available financial strategies that would help you in building a more secured future, and apply it. Life should go on.
Also, play an active role in your community. A better life for you and your family is not just about acquiring wealth. It also means living within a good environment. We don't need another wake up call to start caring for our environment. Let's work together.
On a side note, let's continue to extend help to the calamity victims. Canned goods, rice, water, and clothes are needed at this time. You may contact the Philippine Red Cross, your local church, some private companies as they are still accepting donations for their relief operations. You may also send in your donations at the concierge booth at Ayala Malls during regular store hours.
