Apo Island has been a friend to everyone who visits it. And for me, who calls this island home, Apo is both a friend and a safe haven.
But last night, Apo Island turned into a nightmare.
I have not slept for the entire evening. It’s impossible. Every sound you could ever dread to hear was there. The wind rotating, trees falling, roofs being blown by the wind, the waves roaring — it felt like the island was destroying itself, and with us with it.
...When morning finally broke and I finally got the chance to walk down to the village, I felt like crying. There was so much destruction. I couldn’t continue taking photos. Watching people trying to fix their homes, from draining the water to nailing whatever is left of their houses, was too heartbreaking. It wasn’t a memory I wanted to preserve.
To those who couldn’t contact their families, please know that everyone in the island is safe. If you still can’t contact your families by tomorrow, you can send me a message and I will personally find a way for you to get in touch with them.
[EDIT]
For the people of Apo, I’m decided on running a fund raising drive to help them in any way that is possible. However, I still need to assess how I can go through with it and quite frankly, I still need to regain my strength, my body is in pain right now.
So to everyone who wants to extend their help, I will get back to you tomorrow, and I wholeheartedly thank you for your kindness and concern.
‼️ [EDIT, December 18, 2021] ‼️
To those who want to donate for the affected families of the Typhoon Odette in Apo Island, donation details is already posted. Please see pinned post in my profile. Thank you so much! 🙏
Keep warm!
