All countries are good at producing different things. For example, Japan is good at producing technological gadgets. Venezuela is good at producing beauty queens. Brazil is good at producing lingerie supermodels and football superstars. Britain is good at producing the special mystique of royalty. Typhoon Yolandas aftermath has once again showed that the Philippines is excellent at producing People Power. We Filipinos have learned to rely on each other during the most difficult times. We have learned to ask for help, not from our politicians, but from our friends, families, and next-door neighbours. During the darkest moments, our gossiping neighbour Aling Lukring could be more dependable than that show-stopping Senator or Congressman. Social media is awash with ordinary people soliciting help, giving donations, and saying thank you to those who provided assistance. A powerful grassroots humanitarian response has been gathering strength. But amidst all these, one question begs to be answered: where, indeed, are our political leaders? Someone who has the strong will, who will take control and coordinate, making sure that the aid actually reaches those people who need it most? And quickly. Leaders from other countries have already given a solid response. Obama and the US is sending ships filled with supplies and trained personnel. Cameron and the UK is sending a warship containing equipment that turns seawater into drinkable water. These are true, solid, straightforward, and (dare I say it) very manly responses to the disaster. Not one of those emotional theatrics our politicians are so good at dishing out. How about our leaders? The one man who is actually getting into the action is Dick Gordon, head of the Philippine Red Cross. I sincerely hope that he is getting the support he needs so he can do his job properly. Any more? I do hope that more of our leaders shall stand up soon, please. In a time of weakness, a show of strength, willpower, and protectiveness is most welcome. As for myself. What am I doing to help? To tell you the truth, I am having this very powerful, overwhelming urge to book the next flight to the Philippines, so I can eventually go to where the action is. Provide assistance to those who need it. Be helpful. Be useful. A Cathay Pacific flight to Manila is leaving this afternoon. Cost: £1,600. Followed by a domestic flight to Cebu. The way to Samar or Leyte, I still dont know. Note to self: Breathe in, breathe out. Calm down. There are other people who can provide help. Not just donations. But actual manpower. Lucky bastards.
Posted on: Tue, 12 Nov 2013 11:31:01 +0000
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