The Dumaya family, belonging to the Dumagat indigenous tribe in Dingalan, Aurora, lives a simple life close to the nature. The head of the family, 50-year-old Marshall Dumaya, catches fish and harvests rattan for a living.
Believing there are 15 more years to wait before a great catastrophe happens, as told by indigenous elders, Marshall admits his family was unprepared when the Category 5 Super Typhoon Karding (Noru) hit their small town in Aurora.
“Even when I heard about the coming storm, I was complacent because I saw how calm the sea was. That afternoon, it felt normal,” he explained.
When the night came, Marshall said one of his sons alerted him that the aggressive wind may destroy their house. He felt concerned about his family, so he asked God for protection. “Thankfully, none of us were harmed. Even with great losses, I am glad the Lord remembered us and spared us from a greater tragedy,” he said.
When Operation Blessing made rounds of distribution to areas affected by the typhoon, the Dumaya family was one of those provided with immediate relief. They were given a solar lamp, Bible, and a food bag that could last for a week.
“When I was called to receive the solar lamp, I was ready to leave, contented and happy. But when I heard again my name to receive the food bag, I was so delighted,” Marshall said. “My heart is full because of your donations. Thank you for the hope and the joy you brought us,” he added.
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If you are interested to partner with us in winning smiles from our tribal kababayans, like Marshall, you may visit our website at www.operationblessing.ph or contact us at 09399215543/ 09189067753 for more details.
DSWD-SB-SP-000061-2021-Nationwide. Valid until Nov 23, 2022.