On December 17, 2021, Typhoon Rai (Odette) made its eighth landfall in Negros Oriental. Reflecting on the far-reaching impacts of the storm, as well as the risk that remote communities face each day, further highlight the critical need for clean water in large supply in a disaster’s wake.
“Before the typhoon hit, we have a hose near the school where we get water to drink. Now, we struggle accessing it after the rain and mud contaminated our only source of water here in the community,” shared Ediemar Rodriguez, 32, resident of Brgy. Banahaw Dansulan, Bais City, Negros Oriental.
Living away from the city proper, Ediemar and her husband depends on farming for their daily needs. She has five children; the eldest is 13 years old and the youngest is only three.
In the wake of the typhoon, the situation of the Rodriguez family became more difficult. The roof of their house was broken, the farm where they harvest their crops was destroyed, and their access to water became limited, affecting their family’s health and sanitation.
Rather than distribute water, the Operation Blessing team provided water filter buckets to the community affected by the typhoon. These water filtration systems use one of the fastest and most cost-efficient way to get pure potable water to communities in need. And for the residents of Brgy. Banahaw Dansulan, this help is immense and urgently needed.
Ediemar and other families in the barangay also received food bags and Nutrinkles food supplement for kids. But, the water filter was especially important for Ediemar. “This will be greatly used here in the community. I am truly grateful for this donation. Thank you very much!”
Thanks to the 302nd Brigade, PA and the Cebu Pacific Air, Operation Blessing was able to support people like Ediemar as they recover and become more resilient to future emergencies.
To help us keep communities safe after a disaster, please give at www.operationblessing.ph. inquiries, contact 09399215543 or 09189067753.