PIA Press Release
Saturday, January 07, 2012 Feature: Hope amidst crisisby Margie Rauto-Valmoria CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, January 7 (PIA) -– Less than a month ago, people were so busy preparing for the Christmas season. Many were seen busy buying gifts, partying and even planning for a vacation. Happiness was noticeable. However, this perennial excitement vanished and turned into desolation as some people in some areas of Northern Mindanao perished due to tropical storm ‘Sendong.’ December 16, 2011 is the first morning for Misa de Gallo, and on the evening of that same day, Sendong reportedly hit some parts of the region. Most schools and even other government agencies held Christmas party on that same day Sendong started to ravage the place. Never did it dawn to people that its wrath would cause severe devastation. History has it. The cities of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro are not a usual path for typhoons. Life here is more comfortable. But the history was changed by TS Sendong. With what happened, a new perspective emerged – an eye opener in every way. Life is more than comfort itself. The happening has given opportunity for people to look at life in a more meaningful way. Several stories that manifest the echoes of people’s kindness, care, love and loyalty recurred. During the tragic event, different stories of saving act came out and help flooded in different forms. Mostly were saved through the help of some rescue teams coming from different agencies like the army, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and some others. Some people nearby and neighbors who were not affected by Sendong extended their help by casting some ropes to the struggling victims. Even logs, woods, animals became a source of salvation. A dog saved a girl in the city; in darkness in Hinaplanon, Iligan city, a student identified the voice of his former teacher helped his mentor; and a lot of heartbreaking stories surfaced. Why do bad things happen? In dark hours, most of the things neglected can be valued and some good deeds made by people can be more appreciated and recognized. Life is a season—a season of celebration and a season of experiences—in no particular time and place but everything in God’s order. (DepEd/PIA-10) | 
