The Taal Volcano Eruption

This column commiserates with the residents and victims of the devastations by the havoc rendered as a consequence of the eruption of Taal volcano which practically wiped out the municipalities surrounding the volcano. As a consequence thousands of residents have been evacuated to different evacuation sites in the province. And it is gratifying to note that thousands have provided relief goods such as water, food and clothing to the evacuees. Of note are the residents of Pampanga who responded without delay saying that it was time for them to pay back the generosity they received when Mount Pinatubo erupted. Different groups and civic organizations all over the country have also came up with aid and relief materials to the evacuees. It is worthwhile to note that the whole country has responded in unison in coming up with whatever they can to help. From radio reports we have heard that our city is sending to the local government of Talisay the sum of one (P1M) million pesos as its aid. It is however, unfortunate that one group has reportedly bought boxes of bottled waters and disposing them at gargantuan price per bottle. This solitary incident is a far cry from how the Americans have responded when the Twin Towers World Trade Center in New York collapsed on September 11 years back and thousands of US residents responded by bringing foods and other provisions to the victims. Thru this column we would like to call on the civic, religious and other organizations here in Naga to not to hesitate in doing their share to help in whatever way they can.

Personally, I was deeply touched when I heard from print and broadcast media reports that the Municipalities of Taal and Lemery, Batangas where among those devastated by lahar from the volcano. Taal is the birth place of my deceased father while Lemery is the birth place of my grandfather on the mother’s side. I still have counsins and relatives leaving in Taal and I just hope that they are well and safe.

TRIVIA: Reminding all officers and members of the Knights of Rizal of our regular membership meeting this coming Saturday January 18. Important matters will be taken up including possible aid which we can extend to the victims of lahar in Talisay.

Greetings to my good friend Grace Repama on the occasion of her Nth birthday anniversary this Saturday January 18. May you have a great and wonderful day.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK: “FAITH WITHOUT CHARITY BEARS NO FRUIT WHILE CHARITY WITHOUT FAITH WOULD BE A SENTIMENT CONSTANTLY AT THE MERCY OF DOUBT.” POPE BENEDICT VI

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE: “THEY WILL BE CALLED OATS OF JUSTICE PLANTED BY THE LORD TO SHOW HIS GLORY.” ISAIAH 61:3