Tacloban For A Day

Last week we went to Southern Leyte for a special mission: to conduct Knights Tale and Princess Diaries Weekend Retreat. But since there's no direct flight from Manila to Maasin (venue of the retreat), we took the Manila-Tacloban route.

As we all know, Leyte was greatly hit by Yolanda last year. And we were witnesses to how the province is still struggling to get back on their feet a year later. From Tacloban, we traveled four hours to Maasin, passing through Palo and other municipalities that were badly affected. While there are already several structures that were restored, there are still a lot that needs to be rehabilitated.

I am grateful for the overwhelming help that the global community, and the local NGOs and foundations has extended to our brethren in Leyte. I am well aware that not everything will be back to their original state. The lives that were lost will only remain a memory, the terror of that fateful day will continue to haunt them, but with our steadfast support and constant prayers, they will soon rise again.

After all, God is faithful to restore His people. He makes things work for the good of those who love Him. I truly believe that the Papal Visit this January is just one of God's ways to assure His beloved nation that hope is not useless, peace is not impossible, and there is still joy in the midst of pain of suffering. :)

God's unfailing mercy and compassion are the very foundation of the better, brighter future that awaits us all! We just need to continue to believe and have faith.

Tacloban Airport. Still under construction.

******

P.S.

When in Tacloban, you must try these two delicacies:

Binagol - a delicious kakanin made of gabi, coconut, margarine, sugar, milk, vanilla, rice, and eggs.

Abuyog (Special Chocolate Moron) - not just your ordinary suman! It's so rich in flavor as it is a combination of rice, coconut milk, salt, tablea, sugar, milk, butter, margarine, peanut butter, peanut, cheese, and egg.

They are for sale at the canteens outside the airport. I bought mine from Rosario's Canteen. Binagol is sold at Php50 per piece while the moron is sold at Php100 per bunch of 10. :)

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