Borongan turns ‘Yolanda’ grief into action call

Super typhoon “Yolanda” killed 6,300 people, injured 28,688 and left 1,062 missing when it tore through the Philippines in November 2013, affecting more than 16 million people and displacing about 4.1 million.

The storm damaged or destroyed 1.14 million houses, while the government’s broader assessment placed the economic damage and losses at P571.1 billion.

In a message marking the 13th anniversary of “Yolanda,” the Diocese of Borongan is asking Filipinos to remember not only the devastation but also the hope that emerged from it.

In recalling the super typhoon, the episcopal district pointed out that “we do not go back to the horror and fear. We go back to the hope and wisdom it left us.”

The diocese called for stronger environmental protection, warning that the lessons of the disaster remain relevant amid an escalating environmental crisis.

“Yolanda” asks something of us today, in the midst of an environmental emergency that grows more urgent each year,” it said.

Disasters lurk

The diocese urged communities to reject destructive mining, protect forests and mangroves, reduce waste and strengthen disaster preparedness in homes and parishes.

It also called on Filipinos to support vulnerable communities and press for responsible environmental policies.

“Let us act with care for our common home: reject destructive mining, plant and protect our trees and mangroves, reduce waste, prepare our families and parishes for disasters, support those most vulnerable, and make our voices heard for just and responsible policies,” it said.

“Let us begin in our homes, parishes, schools and communities,” it added.

The diocese also remembered those who died and expressed gratitude to the individuals, communities and organizations that helped survivors rebuild their lives.

“We continue to entrust the souls of the victims to the compassionate hands of God, and the grieving families to his consoling heart,” it said.