@Abbywan 8 November 2022

SUPERTYPHOON YOLANDA MOMENTS (international code name Haiyan) November 8, 2013 I am sure that the said date will never be forgotten by the Yolanda victims, specially the Taclobanons. Tacloban City, where I live, was one of the most devastated areas during that time. Nine years has passed. Here are some memories I have on that day (some speaks to me on a certain personal level): 1. On that day, before the storm surge, my mother was busy hanging clothes that she washed the other day. We have a clothesline inside the house. 2. Before the water entered our house, my siblings and I were convinving our father for immediate evacuation. He kept on saying NO; and the family can't do anything but obey. 3. When the flood was already knee-deep inside the house, my father finally gave the go signal. I only took with me my laptop, school papers, and ATM card. 4. My siblings, guided by our father, went immediately to the barangay's evacuation center (about 30 meters from our house). Three were left at the house: I waited for my mom; my mom was forcing my PWD (cannot walk) grandfather to evacuate. 5. On the way to the evacuation center, I saw a dog that was about to drown and some chickens that were trapped in their cages. I literally froze for about 5 seconds. 6. Waist-deep flood. Outside our house. My grandfather told my mom, "bayaa nala ak niyo, nadadara tak tiil hit tubig." Lolo wanted us to leave him. I heard the loudest cry from my mom, "Buliiiiiiiig! Buliiiiiiiig! Buligi kami niyoooooo!" That shout broke my heart. 7. My father, who is partially blind, came back for us. Respect! Our neighbors, who we dont talk to that much, helped and rescued us. Respect! 8. We were at our neighbor's roof for God knows how long. Strong wind- there were flying stuff everywhere. Heavy rain- it was a bit painful to the skin. My mom was worried sick for me, my father, and my grandfather. 9. On the roof, some were praying silently. Some were crying while calling God's name. One was singing "Lord Patawad". Most were just staring blankly at something. 10. We transferred from one house to another through improvised bridges. At the evacuation center, I realized I was already hugging my younger siblings- which I rarely do. 11. No one died from our barangay or from my family. We had a delicious dinner at that day. Some were from our neighbors' house food supplies and some were from the early looting. 12. It was the first time in many years when "all residents" were gathered in one area. Complete attendance. (Even during general meetings, complete attendance of residents does not happen) Photo Source: I Love Tacloban facebook page