#TindogTacloban (Rise Again Tacloban)
Rachelle Grace San Pedro
When our plane landed in Tacloban, it was as if we stepped onto a different reality.
It has been six months since super typhoon Yolanda ravaged Eastern Visayas. Still, one can catch a glimpse of what she left behind.
The airport was nothing but a single runway, a makeshift structure with manual stations just enough to operate. From the window of the van that brought us to the office, the view consisted of one dilapidated house after another. Families huddled in the small tents built by international humanitarian organizations, enduring the summer heat and scavenging for a meal. Electricity, water, cable connection and internet were restored in some places but still absent in many. It was difficult not to be moved, to realize that in half a year since disaster, rehabilitation still has a long way to go.
As the days went by however and we became more familiarized with the city and its people, I observed a different Tacloban. There are flowers from the rubble, hope amidst a situation of despair. We saw elements of #TindogTacloban (Rise Again Tacloban) in everyday practice, coming alive as not just a message of encouragement but rather a belief people hold dearly. We heard brave stories of survivors. We learned of various efforts from NGOs focused on anti-trafficking, prevention of child labor, livelihood assistance, health and sanitation and many other initiatives. We saw businesses trying to resume operations as best as they can. We passed by churches filled with believers offering their prayers. We heard laughter from children playing basketball in open fields where they simply erected a basket. Everywhere, people suffered loss but have not been defeated. Resilience is a word thrown so easily, but is truly inspiring to witness.
In symbolic gesture, a rainbow appeared after some downpour right before our flight back to Manila. And I could only wish for vibrant color to be restored once again in the future of this city with such strong and beautiful people.
Rachelle Grace San Pedro graduated from Ateneo de Manila University with a degree on Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies. She loves reading, writing (including blogging), traveling, photography, and managing events.