Last Dec. 15, another powerful earthquake hit the province of Davao del Sur in Mindanao. Measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale, the tremor again caused so much devastation in hundreds of barangays across the region.
This was the fourth major tremor this year to hit southern Mindanao, and the calamities have displaced thousands of families who have sought refuge at their nearby barangay evacuation centers.
Many of the victims, including Jovita Atao, a 77-year-old grandmother who now stays at the evacuation center with her two daughters, would like to pick up the pieces. But the aftershocks continue to strike, so all they can do for now is wait and live in fear, and perhaps wonder what would be in store for them in the future.
Fortunately, the rest of the country has not been blind to their plight. Many of their countrymen have come to offer relief and support to the victims. Among them is Senator Risa Hontiveros, who personally shipped in sacks of rice and other essential goods to the various evacuation centers at the affected areas. The senator also met with the victims and offered them moral support.
“Having experienced a 6.9 earthquake is no joke,” Hontiveros said. “These people have been traumatized, especially the children. It’s a never-ending nightmare because the aftershocks continue to strike.”
Nevertheless, the senator praised the local government units and the national agencies for their efficient support to the victims. She cited the first responders who did the rescue operations and gave first to aid to the victims.
Hontiveros said this kind of support reflects the compassion and resilience of the Filipino people.
While the senator intends to continue to provide relief to the victims, she said more Filipinos must also do their part and it will make the difference in providing hope for the victims.