Filipinos display “oneness” in Taal Volcano eruption

The devastation brought by the eruption of Taal Volcano becomes clearer everyday as many photos and videos are shown on TV and in the internet.

Since January 12, ashes and volcanic materials poured down on parts of Batangas and nearby areas that soon covered many houses in the area.

With the current situation, thousands of residents are forced to stay in many evacuation centers situated around the province of Batangas.

Evidently, helps from everywhere are pouring.

On the part of the government sector, numerous local government units gave financial assistance while others sent tons of relief goods such as mineral waters, hygiene kits, canned goods, and the like.

Here in the north, particularly the province of Ilocos Norte, Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc, three days after the incident, immediately dispatched a wing van which contains relief goods such as canned goods, bottled water, sleeping mats, N95 face masks, and other relief items for the victims greatly affected. The provincial government also sent financial assistance to the affected province.

Other provinces in Ilocos such as Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan similarly made respective efforts in mobilizing their own relief operations as well as provided financial assistance.

Inspite of this, NGOs appeal for humanitarian aid for those thousands affected and displaced by the wrath of the country’s second most active volcano.

No less than Sen. Richard Gordon, as Philippine Red Cross Chairman and CEO, appealed to the public to donate, cash or in-kind for our countrymen in distress.

For one, facemasks or surgical masks (N95) are badly needed since ash is harmful to a person’s health, particularly for those suffering from respiratory illnesses.

Similarly, food, medicine, clean water, tents and essential household items (sleeping mats and blankets and shelter grade tarpaulins) are also a necessity for the homeless.

Indeed, various groups, both from the government and private sectors, are doing their own part to extend help and support to the affected families.

Truly, these efforts from them exemplify the true Filipino spirit of unity and love.