explore my optimistic world

In spite of the catastrophe that destroyed a big portion in the town of La Libertad and the neighboring places of Guihulngan, Jimalalud and Tayasan on February 6, 2012, there are still several major factors or reasons that every person in these municipalities must be thankful for:

…that the 6.9 magnitude earthquake did not occur on night time, because if that was so, what will possibly draw before us, are lifeless bodies of our fellow citizens. Just imagine that ahead that sound sleep of our loved ones is a sudden, devastating earthquake. That’s why, let’s thank God that it did not befall on the evening.

…that Tañon Strait, the passage separating the islands of Cebu and Negros is not an open sea, because if that was so, expect a great tsunami to hit the area. That even dwellers in highlands will get to encounter the furious tidal waves.

…that the natives living along the shorelines were able to leave immediately and transfer to upland areas, because though there was low rise of sea level, but the water still reached and destroyed several houses few steps away from the coast, thus, leaving many people homeless.

…that some settlers in Bluke 2, Solongon stayed alert, making them able to perceive the unpredicted landslide. But unfortunately, many were buried alive; homes and properties, rice and corn fields gone astray.

…in our part, we are very much thankful that the property we call “home” is still standing. Though cracks are visible, though our kitchen and small garden are totally destroyed, but above all, the most important is seeing all your loved ones, all family members, ALIVE.

Here are some marks of damages in Sitio San Juan (coastline of La Libertad), where my family is residing, where for more than 20 years now, I learn what life is all about.

Nang Elena's house (neighbor)


Nanay Laida and Tatay Julio's house, where I spent most of my childhood days, as mama and papa used to leave me in their (nanay & tatay's) custody before reporting to work (for papa) and school (for mama).


Our neighbors’ nipa houses are totally destroyed,
meaning they can no more be inhabited.


Full devastation of houses