Cooperation and Compassion Key to Rising Above Ondoy Aftermath

The photos and videos of the effects of typhoon Ondoy have been very disheartening. Thousands of people have been stranded, left without food and water, their belongings gone, houses completely flooded. Many have lost their lives.

The typhoon has brought so much destruction. We’re just beginning to see how much. A lot of people need help, and, thankfully, many are already responding.

In the run-up to the 2010 elections, we have seen many politicians and groups jostle for position in the national scene. But this is a time for putting competition aside. This is a time for getting together, for forgetting differences, political or otherwise. This is certainly not the time for showing off or crassly taking credit. It’s simply a time to help those in need.

If KFC’s Chuck and Jollibee – tough competitors in the fast food industry – can work together to encourage others, certainly, so can we?

I hope your hearts are warmed by this video. This was taken before Ondoy hit the Philippines. Everyone in this video didn’t know at that time what disaster was to come upon the country in just a few days. This is also a reminder that there will be better days ahead. The Filipino will smile again, in spite of the devastation we see now. We are resilient. But we need to cooperate and be compassionate to survive and be stronger in the aftermath.

Many avenues are open for those who can help. If you have a boat, please consider going out to help rescue those who are still stranded on their rooftops. If you have blankets, clothes, shoes/flip-flops/slippers, towels, and so on, please share them with those in need. If you have strength, please help pack and distribute the relief goods. Even if you have just a little something, please help those who have nothing. Again, here is the list of places that accept items for the typhoon victims.