As a fisherman’s wife, Ebsel Bone, 32, was used to living with very little. However, when a powerful storm ripped through their island and destroyed her home, she found herself struggling to keep her children safe and dry under a makeshift tarpaulin roof.
Ebsel was a mother of four who lived on a small island in Getafe, Bohol. Her husband was a fisherman, and their earnings were meager—barely enough to meet their basic needs.
They were, however, a happy family who found joy in the little things in life.
In 2021, Typhoon Odette hit their town, destroying their home and leaving them with nothing but the clothes on their backs. They immediately evacuated to Jandayan Elementary School, waiting for help to arrive.
“The government was quick to respond, providing us with a tarpaulin sheet to use as a roof,” Ebsel explained. She was grateful for the help, but she knew it wouldn’t be enough to keep her family safe.
Days turned into weeks and months, and they struggled to survive under the tarpaulin roof. The rainy season made things worse, with heavy rains pouring down on them day and night. The tarpaulin sheet leaked, and they had to constantly shift positions to avoid getting wet.
Despite the difficulties, Ebsel stood firm for her family. Her husband worked long hours catching fish, going without food at times so that their children could eat. Ebsel’s hands were even calloused from helping her husband, but she persevered, knowing that it was the only way to provide for their family.
When Operation Blessing extended help to island communities in Bohol, Ebsel was one of the selected beneficiaries who were given reconstruction materials like GI sheets and plywood.
“Finally, we can start rebuilding our home, a place where we can feel safe and secure. Thank you, Operation Blessing!”
This efforts is in partnership with 702nd CDC, 7RCDG, Reserve Command, 47th Katapatan IB, the local government unit of Tagbilaran City, and the Bohol Evangelical Pastors Association.
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If you want to be a part of our efforts to bless disaster-hit kababayans like Ebsel, visit www.operationblessing.ph. For inquiries, call 09399215543 or 09189067753.