Conference develops livelihood assistance program; pastor says new doors open; others believe it's a ‘perfect' political tool
By Armon Perez Tolentino
Four months after Typhoon Ketsana, locally known as "Ondoy" in the Philippines, ravaged most of Metro Manila and the provinces of Rizal, Laguna, Bulacan, and Pampangga last September of 2009, many residents have recovered through many ways including the rehabilitation program of the Adventist Community Services (ACS) of Central Luzon yet still some places remain challenged by the conditions the tragedy left.
Pastor Jose Zabat, Jr. (almost center, standing), the main proponent of the "Livelihood Assistance" program for the victims of Ketsana orients typhoon victims on the rehabilitation programs in Banaba Extension, San Mateo, Rizal on January 20, 2010. The project has already assisted 40 families.
Aside from the "Quick Disaster Response" program,the first phase of the project that helped thousands of families, the Seventh-day Adventist Church through its administrative region in Central Luzon developed a second phase of comprehensive rehabilitation efforts that includes the "Livelihood Assistance" project.The project which runs from October 2009 to October 2010 helps in repairing/rebuilding of houses, environmental clean-up, solid waste management, livelihood sourcing, disaster prevention, environmental care education, and health care.
According to Pastor Jose Zabat, Jr., ACS director and Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) coordinator for Central Luzon, Loma Linda Filipino-American Adventist Church primarily funds this project that has already helped 40 families, almost 25% of the target 200 families which also includes non-Adventists. There are many donors both local and abroad that he wishes to thank.
"I have heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus," said Zabat quoting Ephesians 1:15-16. "I have also heard your love for all of God's people."
Meanwhile, victims have not only recovered economically but also emotionally and spiritually.
Pastor RestyBualoy, who was a victim of the flooding himself upon losing everything his family owned in his house in San Mateo Rizal, related that he has cleaned up his house to make it livable again and people have recovered fast through the strong support system and spiritual nourishment that the church gives.
"Adventist victims in Provident Village were singing songs of praises to God on a rooftop even while the typhoon was ravaging everything that surrounded them," said Bualoy. "I just know that they've acquired stronger faith because the tragedy reminded us that we are going home in a little while."
Bualoyexcitedly shared that the tragedy has even opened doors for the advancement of the message of hope as his group expects new churches in Banaba and the municipality of San Mateo, Rizal where there is almost zero Adventist presence.
While most of Metro Manila, Bulacan and Pampanga have stabilized, there are still areas in Tanay, Rizal; Laguna; San, Mateo, Rizal; and Nagpayong, Pasig City where flood water hasn't totally dried up.
People including CarminaAmorEzperanza, a regular volunteer in relief operations and rehabilitation projects see this might be abused in the height of campaign for national elections in the country.
"As I observe, Filipinos tend to vote for any candidate that hands them help," said Esperanza. "This can be a perfect political tool but I still just hope that people in need will just be genuinely helped."
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|