Surviving From Typhoon Odette

New Year is supposed to be the most awaited time, in this moment people face the end of a year with so much excitement, it is because we wanted to see how the new year will be.

Being affected by the typhoon has affected not only my health but also my mental health. Counting the days were hard, and everyday was a real struggle. Looking at the severe damage and the loss of water, electricity, and internet has left most of us stagnant. I was even anticipating for Christmas and New Year but in a flash all those anticipation and excitement has vanished the day after the typhoon.

December 16, 2021 marks a day that many Cebuanos will never forget, at 7 pm the residence of Lapu-lapu has starting to feel the strong wind hitting our roof. I have been very complacent for the many years my hometown hasn't been damaged by any typhoon. But for the first time in 34 years I was scared for my life, my kids, my family and my home. It lasted for many hours and couldn't fell asleep.

I was praying for the entire night as I hear the rumbling wind blow our roof. Hearing flying roof from the neighborhood scares me. It's just me and my kids in the house, no one could help us or protect us in case something happens. I had to be brave and hide all my worries.

Devastated but still happy as the storm stopped. I thought thank God we are safe and our house was still intact. But now for one week already I am struggling to find water to drink. I had to find gasoline for my motorcycle and ATM to get money.

It was that moment I thought that life without a husband beside you is really tough. I could cry and still couldn't do anything. But I still I will just double or triple my effort so me and my kids could survive.

I would spend 5-8 hours lining up to get money in the ATM. Wake up as early as 3 am just to line up for water and end up going home with nothing. Going back again the next day still hopeful to be able to get water for my family.From the food to buy and how to prepare them despite the lack of water and electricity. Food should be cooked right away for we don't have any means to store them.

Now being back to work everyday has been a day of survival. From our day of cleaning the cubicle, grounds and classrooms we had a tiring day. I saw a post online that we can actually receive if we are OFW (Overseas
Filipino Worker) dependents.

Lining up in the heat of the sun didn't stop us for we are hoping to receive support from the government. Being able to receive one will be a great help to my family for we can buy some of the things we need.

I get to order rice toppings which is a budget meal is a great deal. I spent only 131 pesos or $4 more or less. Such a savings right? We were full and satisfied with the food. A bit sacrifice will surely be rewarded later, I hope so. Maybe by lining up and be listed we might receive the money assistance.

Honestly the food served here are affordable and delicious. Andoks Restaurant served mostly filipino dish and grilled pork.

I enjoyed the meal specially because I was with great friends. Great company completes this meal.

A lot of houses in the neighborhood has been damaged, posts down and family's not having any homes. I thought to myself, New year is a new chapter of my life. There might be some problems I have encountered but as long as my kids are okey I can surpass all of this as long as we are togehter.