As many of you may know, the Philippines was recently struck by a very strong typhoon called Haiyan, or typhoon Yolanda as it is called in the Philippines. 195 mph winds, tsunami-like waves, flooding, all these contributed to the complete obliteration of several coastal cities and towns on several islands in the Philippines, namely Leyte, Samar, Biliran, Iloilo, Aklan, Capiz, Bohol, and many many others. The most visible devastation and most media focused city is the city of Tacloban, which was levelled completely. Googling typhoon Yolanda will bring you even more information about this horrific tragedy.
What is even more horrific is the complete and utter incompetence of the Filipino government in responding effectively and efficiently to this disaster. So MUCH aid has been pouring in from all parts of the globe, but the aid has been bottlenecked because of local government inefficacy, blame-gaming, and posturing.
I’m lucky to have friends and family in the area who I’ve been working with to get aid to them as fast as possible. I’ve sent money directly to these local organizations who have been using their own personal resources such as food, water, and transportation to get to the islands as quickly as possible. To see their successful efforts in getting at least some help to the survivors is a bit of balm to my present frustration at all that is happening.
In the middle of all this frustration is my overwhelming sense of gratitude to the international community who have stepped up and sent help immediately. Countries such as the US, Australia, Canada, Japan, European Union, all of them have sent money, supplies, medical personnel and equipment, military support, and other forms of aid. I am deeply thankful to everyone who has helped out, and continued to help out.
You can help out as well, there are numerous channels to which you can send money to. The internet has made it possible for you to be able to help out in any way you can if you just Google it. Every little bit helps, $5 dollars is 250 pesos, which can buy a family two days of warm meals , or shelter, or basic clothing and necessities.
Locally here in San Diego, the LBC stores here are offering free shipping for all goods to the Philippines until November 23 if you would like to start your own drive to raise goods and services.
Finally, if you would like to send money directly to the organizations for immediate aid, please email me directly. Again, every little bit hepls.
