Together, They Weathered the Storm
In the early morning hours of September 30, 2024, Super Typhoon Julian made its mark with a fierce landfall in Batanes. The howling winds and torrential rains battered the islands, uprooting trees and leaving roads impassable. The familiar landscapes of Batanes were practically obliterated by destruction, as homes suffered damage and the community faced a challenging reality in the wake of the storm.
At day break on October 01, 2024, the typhoon had passed, and it was time to pick up pieces of destruction. Leading the charge, PCol Victorino B. Valdez, Provincial Director, Batanes Police Provincial Office, mobilized his team alongside other uniformed personnel and volunteers. Together, they rolled up their sleeves and set out, armed with nothing more than their dedication and determination. Fallen trees were swiftly moved aside, roads were cleared of debris, and accessibility was restored, particularly for emergency vehicles and larger transport.
On October 2, the Provincial Government of Batanes, led by Hon. Marilou H. Cayco, declared the province under a “State of Calamity.” Following the storm, local authorities recorded a total of 7,088 families (21,348 individuals) affected, with 196 homes completely destroyed and 1,388 partially damaged. A total of 29 people remained in evacuation centers across the province. The urgent situation prompted the visit of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on October 4to personally assess the damage and provide needed assistance to the affected communities.
His excellency, PBBM presented an initial assistance of Php25 million pesos from the Office of the President for Batanes through Governor Cayco. The President also pledged his commitment to ensure that a wide range of aid would be provided to support the recovery of the province. This included cash assistance of Php10,000 for every affected family, as well as funding for the rehabilitation of various damaged infrastructure and support for the recovery of the agricultural sector. An additional 14,000 Family Food Packs (FFPs) from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) were set to arrive in Batanes. These efforts reflected not just the financial support, but also a heartfelt promise that the people of Batanes would not face this challenging times alone. The President’s visit brought hope and reassurance, igniting a renewed spirit of resilience among the communities as they started to embark on the journey to rebuilding their lives.
On the other hand, PCol Valdez and the allied forces, including the Philippine Navy, Philippine Marines and Army Reservists, ensured the safety of the President during all his activities in the province. They remained vigilant and on guard, providing security until his departure aboard a Philippine Air Force plane.
The aftermath of Super Typhoon Julian showcased the profound unity that emerged amidst the storm’s devastation. President Marcos Jr. stepped in to provide vital support, demonstrating his commitment to the recovery of Batanes.
The collaboration of PNP, allied government agencies, and local volunteers exemplified the strength of solidarity as they worked tirelessly to restore order and provide assistance to affected families, from the receiving and delivery of the essential goods, up to the rebuilding of roads and other structures. The resilience of the people of Batanes shone through its determination to rebuild and support one another in the face of adversity.
Together, they formed a powerful community united by hope, compassion, and a shared vision for a brighter future. This collective effort underscores the spirit of bayanihan that defines the Filipino people, proving that even in the darkest times, together they can weather any storm.
