As the Philippines keeps an eye on the devastating typhoon Carina that hit Luzon last July 23 amidst the horror, chaos and destruction — a different story emerges. One of bravery, compassion, and humanity. Behind every disastrous event, there are people who represent the real essence of heroism — the typhoon rescuers.
Communities are overtaken by the devastation that a storm leaves behind. The rescuers show themselves as rays of hope at these times. They are volunteers, reservists, firefighters, service members in the armed forces, and regular people from agencies, offices and local government units. Equipped with determination and selfless attitude, they dare the wrath of nature in order to rescue lives.
The call of duty
Metro Manila is one of the largest areas affected by typhoon Carina. The super typhoon brought horrors to different walks of life such as stranded commuters along highways and roads, employees stuck in their offices amidst work cancellations, and even those who peacefully enjoy the comfort of their homes got struck by floods that left them helpless and insecure.
In the midst of these catastrophic events, everyone calls for help, assistance and aids to get through the dreadful experience they wished to stop. Across river-like floods, courageous individuals, wearing their orange vest, tightening rope, hard hats and their commitment to save lives, were seen in the middle of these waves, battling against the chaos of both strong wind and pouring rain.
Unsung heroes of the storm burned their committed hearts in the midst of cold, dark and unpredictable weather of July 24 as a person was found trapped in a barge for almost 8 hours. The Bureau of Fire Protection personnel from Pasig City successfully rescued the trapped individual without hesitation.
In other areas, a half-submerged bus was discovered in the floodwaters of Araneta Avenue. Concerned residents attempted to help the passengers, but their efforts were insufficient. Rescuers from Quezon City managed to save the passengers by climbing onto the roof of the bus and by using a boat to evacuate them from the area.
All lives matter
Aside from the people stranded in different areas, noise from the friendly community of pets echo the chambers of hope that wish themselves to be safe.
Various animals are found helpless, longing for safety and protection during the trying times of typhoon Carina. In Manila, nobody got left behind as the stranded pets were also saved from their flash flooded home, giving them a chance to survive. The Manila DRRM Rescue, inclusively saved pets and owners across the city through their tight ropes and lifeboats despite the big surge of water flooded in the streets.
Call to action
The rescuers’ acts of heroism are amongst those who truly exemplifies the essence of public service, commitment and a spirit of humanity. The power of unity echoes through the hearts of these rescuers during the times of natural disasters.
As the stories of these brave rescuers embrace these trying times, an honor of their courage and invaluable contributions as modern heroes shines the brightest during the darkest hours. (AVS / PIA-NCR)
