I cannot find the exact words to explain how horrible it felt to visit the once happy and humble homes found at Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City. All I could do was sit back and watch the unfortunate aftermath Sendong has left of them. I could not thank the Lord enough for keeping my family and I safe from the disaster, but despite our home being unharmed, our bodies completely free from injuries and the exact number of family members we have, a big number of people are left with nothing.

People are fighting for survival these days. Not only do they lack food, clothing and shelter, they lack water too. Their only source is water coming from canals or rivers. Even when they know that it is not safe, they are in no position to choose. Because to them: it’s the dirty way or die.

See this kid here and the bottle of water he’s bringing? That water came from the river which now is filled with mud and probably even bodies of victims that have not yet been found. These two pictures for me are the most painful pictures I have actually seen taken in my entire life. Struggling to get a few for his family at a very young age. I cannot imagine myself in his situation, not one bit. When I was young and it was raining, I always had someone to do errands for me. But this kid had none. And again, I cannot thank the Lord enough for giving me what I have right now. I know that someday, one day, these people will rise again and become stronger not only for themselves but for the worst that will come.

I am not a victim, but I am affected. I am not injured, but I am hurt. I did not lose anyone important, but I mourn. All these because I am one with the Cagayanons in need. This city may not be my hometown, but it is where my heart is. I know we can make it, Cagayan. We’re all in this together. Tough times never last, but I am sure, tough people do.