Bagyong Frank

Two and a half days without electricity, a leaking roof, and un-ironed clothes.

That's the extent of damage that I personally felt with Typhoon Frank. Sad to say, some people were not so lucky.

My heart bleeds for those who lost their possessions, homes, and even loved ones.

According to Gov. Neil Tupas (as heard on tv) there are an estimated 150-200 casualties with still a 100 more missing, around 5000 people are still staying in schools, gyms, and other public buildings temporary set up for those who lost their homes, and about 500M in infrastructure damage.

The local government have declared a state of calamity over the province and city of Iloilo. But some question the preparedness of the local Disaster Management Unit. Lack in medical supplies, food, and clothes abound with the dislocated. While schools and government offices are closed and will resume by Wednesday, June 25.

Relief and aid have started to arrive with no less than the Vice President, Mr. Noli de Castro. But I wonder, is this another form of posturing for the government considering that the President together with some select congressmen (totaling 59 in all) have left the country at the onset of this calamity?

Still, hope remain. The sun is shining and the new day brings relief for some us. A lot is yet to be done but with help and hardwork, most of the people will get through this and chalk it up as another day in the life of the regular Pinoy.

And for those of my friends who haven't communicated about their circumstances, I pray that it's only because of power failure in their area and not much worse.

:)