Urgent Update: Waterloo Community Fears for Families After Typhoons

UPDATE: The community in Waterloo is gripped by fear for their loved ones in the Philippines after two devastating typhoons wreaked havoc, displacing over 1.4 million people and claiming at least 224 lives. The back-to-back storms, Typhoon Kalmaegi and Typhoon Fung-wong, have left many families in turmoil, prompting urgent calls for assistance.

Local leaders are rallying community support as the destruction unfolds. Rambie Bernardo, a reverend at All Saints’ Anglican Church in Waterloo, expressed his heartbreak over the catastrophic impact. “Seeing the videos and pictures of the aftermath has been shocking. It’s really heartbreaking,” he shared with CBC Radio. Many members of his congregation have close family ties in the affected regions.

Typhoon Kalmaegi struck last week, causing severe damage in the northern Philippines and resulting in 224 fatalities. Just days later, Typhoon Fung-wong followed, triggering deadly floods and mudslides, killing at least 8 people. The storm’s massive 1,600-kilometre rain and wind band has made it the most powerful typhoon to threaten the country this year.

Reports indicate extensive land erosion and destruction of rice fields, transforming agricultural areas into rivers. Reverend Bernardo’s family has managed to stay safe, but the devastation surrounding them is profound. “Even some of the high places have been eroded,” he noted. “Rice fields have become an extension of the river.”

In response to the crisis, community members are urged to contribute to relief efforts. Bernardo’s church, along with St. James Anglican Church in Cambridge, is actively collecting donations, food, and clothing to send to those in need in the Philippines as soon as possible. “Making donations is a direct way to help,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, in Toronto, Father Lorenzo Salandanan of Our Lady of Assumption Church is also mobilizing support. He highlighted the urgent need for monetary donations, stating, “It’s easier to bring the monetary funds because that’s what they need at this time.” Salandanan, whose family resides in the Visayas region, has been unable to contact them due to downed power lines, heightening his concern.

“I’m gonna continue lighting the candles and continue to pray for them,” Salandanan expressed, emphasizing the community’s spiritual support during this trying time.

As the situation develops, residents of Waterloo are coming together, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual support. The urgency of the situation calls for immediate action as families continue to face uncertainty and distress in the wake of these catastrophic storms. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and contribute to ongoing relief efforts as the crisis unfolds.