Seven Point Two

Amidst the prevailing corruption issues in our government, we have also been grappling with a series of natural disasters. The recent typhoons, fueled by the Monsoon winds, have wreaked havoc on several provinces. Just as we were trying to recover from the aftermath, a devastating magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck the Visayas region a few days ago, causing significant casualties, particularly in cities like Cebu and Bohol. Centuries-old churches now lie in ruins, and even the renowned Chocolate Hills have suffered a collapse. It almost feels as if some higher power is expressing anger toward us in this destructive manner.

I recall the earthquake in Haiti and the tsunami in Japan, and witnessing those events through news coverage moved me deeply. However, seeing similar devastation unfold in my own homeland hits even harder. It raises questions about why such calamities occur. Are they punishments for our collective sins or some form of karmic retribution? If that's the case, we're all in trouble. But then, upon deeper reflection, it becomes a matter of perspective. Surprisingly, I find gratitude in these tragedies. Now, some might label me as heartless, assuming that I can only say this because I haven't personally experienced such devastation. Admittedly, that's true. However, what I want to emphasize is that these tragedies bring forth the essence of our humanity, the very core that sets us apart from animals. In ordinary circumstances, we might not even spare a thought for strangers. But in the face of calamities like these, everything changes. People from distant places, individuals we've never met, extend a helping hand to the victims. In addition to providing relief goods consisting of a few kilograms of rice, cans of sardines, and packs of instant noodles, they also deliver hope.

Allow me to propose a suggestion on how we can support the earthquake victims. Many Filipino singers have achieved international success, such as Apl de Ap, Charice, Arnel Pineda, Jessica Sanchez, and more. Why not create something akin to what American artists did for Haiti? We could produce a Filipino version of "We Are the World." It could go something like, "We are Bohol/We Are the Children..." Do you see what I did there? 

Photo credit: http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/lhqE_GlDPmb7cxbDiMJXMA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NQ--/http://mit.zenfs.com/184/2013/10/pray.jpg