Typhoons, volcanic eruptions, landslides, floods, thunder and lightning influenced my upbringing -my health, my behavior and my character. These forces in nature are very ordinary to most Filipinos particularly to those living where I grew up in the Bicol region, specifically Legaspi City,Albay province which is frequently the target of deadly storms. The breath-taking landscape of the region ranges from its luscious rainforests, gorgeous blue skies by day and brightly lit stars at night. There are hidden falls of cool waters to warm the mineral rich beaches that vary in color from white to black volcanic sand. And then there are the people of this region, the courageous, resilient, friendly and fun-loving Bicolanos, who suffer so many “beatings” from natural disasters. Yet, once the storm is over, these wonderful Bicolanos clean up the mess, rebuild what they need to and start their lives over and over again.
HOW DID WE SURVIVE?
PRAYERS/RITUALS/CHANTS/ORACION
My mother prayed a lot. People pray, pray and pray. Families huddled together in prayers before, during and after natural disasters. Call it old fashioned, religious or fanatical, but my mother would gather us in prayer at mealtime, at bedtime and when we were about to travel.
PLAY/WALK/SWIM/WORK/SPEND TIME OUTDOORS
We learned to be comfortable outdoors – play, hike, swim, and run around in the mud. This way it was not so strange when we were without the comforts of being inside a house. I become acquainted with bugs that were helpful to keep my immune system strong for any disaster. Learning skills such as swimming gave us not just the opportunity to explore the waters when the weather was calm but also the courage not to be scared when waters start to rise.
Local edible ferns
We ate traditional local unprocessed foods to keep us healthy so that when we did not have the usual foods during or after the disasters, our bodies were able to manage the stress.
WHAT ABOUT YOU? HOW DID YOU SURVIVE IN NATURAL DISASTERS?
If you have an experience similar to what I shared, or more to add to survival tips, please tell me your stories. I welcome your photos and videos as well.
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