Community-Engaged Recovery: Zenaida’s Story
Written by Shirin Bandari
An idyllic town in Gomez, Dinagat is steadily recovering from the aftereffects of Typhoon Odette (Rai) that ripped through its shores last December 2021. Its remote geographical location made it challenging for lifesaving aid to reach the island.
Longtime resident Zenaida Andantiga, 67, recalls the day. “The typhoon was powerful. We took shelter under a large tree so we would not be hit by debris and metal sheets.” Their quaint wooden home was built along a cliff, facing the clear waters of Dinagat.
“Nothing was left of my home,” Zenaida adds. Her children and grandchildren are now helping her rebuild what was lost.
Despite the circumstances, Zenaida volunteered her time at the local barangay hall. She has been doing so for the past 20 years. “We were told by our barangay chairman to survey the places that were damaged. There were many houses by the coast. We helped people go to the school, which was used as an evacuation center.” Zenaida says.
The European Union Humanitarian Aid, CARE, and ACCORD provided cash assistance and livelihood programs to those affected by Typhoon Odette (Rai). Through this, the Women’s Association in Gomez, Dinagat, set up a compact general store to provide for the needs of the community at affordable prices. Zenaida picks up a few food items from the community store before walking home. | Shirin Bandari
Children and senior citizens are the most vulnerable in a time of disaster. The old have a greater prevalence of chronic conditions due to their unique physical, psychological and medical concerns. Barangay Health workers of Gomez segregated the seniors from the children in the evacuation center.
“Being a member of the barangay, we have to help one another and those in need. We may not be financially ready to provide support, but we offered our invaluable service as volunteers.” Zenaida adds.
The European Union Humanitarian Aid, CARE, and ACCORD responded with hygiene kits, cash for livelihood assistance, and shelter repair kits to help the community of Gomez rise from the rubble. But it is through the dedication and commitment of volunteers like Zenaida- regardless of her age, saw the proper implementation of the recovery projects laid out for the town. The rehabilitation of Gomez, Dinagat was successful through the joint effort and participation of its barangay.
“We are thankful for all the support received from the European Humanitarian Aid and ACCORD. The members of a community need to have unity and help one another. But even as a senior, I will try my best to volunteer while I am in good health.” Zenaida adds.
Today Zenaida continues to attend barangay hall meetings with other staff members and volunteers. They think and discuss ways to improve the quality of life for others in their town and encourage people to attend gatherings to have a better understanding of the current issues of Gomez.
“I always pray that God keeps us stronger regardless of our ages and situations, if I can still be of help to others, I will do it, for as long as I can,” Zenaida smiles.
Zenaida diligently records and reports the activities from her volunteer work. She is proud to contribute according to her abilities, especially for the safety and benefit of her community. | Photos: Shirin Bandari
This story is part of the Immediate and Comprehensive Response for Communities Affected by Typhoon Rai (Odette), funded by the European Union Humanitarian Aid and jointly implemented by CARE Philippines, ACCORD Incorporated, Action Against Hunger Philippines, National Rural Women Coalition (PKKK), and Plan International in Dinagat Islands, Palawan, Southern Leyte, Bohol, Negros Occidental, and Cebu, in the Philippines.
