I will never forget this date. And yes, it’s my birthday too.

On this day, September 26, 2009,  typhoon Ondoy left the Metro and nearby areas in a state of calamity. Bringing about rainfall equal to a month’s worth in just 6 hours, the highest since 1967, Ondoy left  many parts of Metro Manila under water. The major rivers overflowed. Hardest hit were the cities of Marikina, Pasig and Cainta.

Hundreds were stranded and scores died as the flood waters devoured entire homes, villages and ate cars like a hungry behemoth.

To date, media reports around 73 dead and around 330,000 individuals displaced. With 80 percent of Metro Manila submerged, the emergency brought about the Filipino’s indomitable will to help each other. Hundreds of volunteers, both public (government) and private individuals and groups launched rescue and relief operations within a matter of minutes. We also have our share of heroes like Army Private First Class Venancio Ancheta

Ancheta was able to rescue 20 individuals before being swept away himself and drowning.

The Internet and mobile phones played a vital role. SNS sites such as Facebook and Twitter became a place to report the whereabouts of hundreds of stranded individuals. The rescuers used this information to get to them as fast as possible. One indivdual even used Google Maps to pinpoint the location of those who needed help. KaninLamig (Cold Rice) used the Google app and ”pinpointed dozens of locations that reported urgent calls for rescue, evacuation, food relief, and other emergencies related to “Ondoy.” GMA also has a map with a list of people and addresses that need rescuing. They update this regularly.

Amateur video posted on Facebook shows how the floodwaters swirled cars like they were toys at UERM.

One of the hardest hit was Provident Village in Marikina. Hundreds of families were stranded in their homes. Recent reports say that at least 8 are dead in Provident. Meanwhile, Facebook user Tanya Escaler has more photos about Ondoy’s wrath.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

With thousands of families in evacuation centers, there is urgent need for fresh water, food, used clothes and more. You can drop off relief supplies as La Salle Greenhills (Gate 2), ABS-CBN or the Red Cross.

Relief Goods can be sent to Caritas Manila Office at Jesus St., Pandaca Manila near Nagtahan Bridge (tel.no. 5639298/5639308). Relief goods can also be brought Radio Veritas at Veritas Tower West Ave. Corner EDSA (tel no. 9257931-40).

Donations in cash can also be sent via your mobile phone.

Just text RED <space> AMOUNT and then send to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)

Generous souls in the US who wish to help in the rescue and relief operations, you may donate through the American Red Cross. Call 1-800-435-7669.

Satellite photos indicate that there are 2 more storms coming to the Philippines. I hope that we (and our government) prepare for the worst.

I pray for all the victims and call upon every Filipino to do their share and help those in dire need.

I’m certain that we will be able to overcome this disaster and show the world how we do it, the Pinoy way.

Godbless!

Photo Credits: Tanya Escaler