AS Severe Tropical Storm Uwan moves closer to Luzon, former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez of Leyte on Saturday led the nation in marking the 12th anniversary of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) – one of the world’s strongest storms – with a message of remembrance, resilience and renewed readiness.
“Twelve years have passed, but the lessons of Yolanda remain deeply etched in our hearts. We honor the memory of those we lost by ensuring that their sacrifice continues to inspire preparedness, compassion and solidarity among our people,” Romualdez said.
The Leyte lawmaker, whose district was among the worst hit when Yolanda struck on November 8, 2013, said the anniversary comes at a time when the country once again faces the threat of a powerful storm.
“Malinaw ang nakuha nating aral noong Yolanda: hindi natin kayang pigilan ang bagyo, pero kaya nating paghandaan ito nang may pagkakaisa at malasakit. Ang kahandaan ay hindi lamang responsibilidad ng pamahalaan kundi ng bawat Pilipino,” he expressed.
“Early warnings must be heeded, evacuation plans must be ready and supply lines must be steady. Community networks matter, from barangay leaders to youth groups to civil society. Preparedness is not a one-time effort, it is an everyday discipline that protects lives,” he added.
Rep. Jude Acidre said the Tingog team has started pre-positioning relief goods in vulnerable areas and preparing hot meals for evacuees once relocation begins.
Romualdez said the devastation of Yolanda forever changed the nation’s approach to disaster management and community resilience.
To commemorate the event, Acidre said a Holy Mass will be celebrated, followed by a candle-lighting activity along the streets of Tacloban City on Saturday night, and the laying of flowers at six mass grave sites — the Holy Cross Cemetery, Shipwreck, Yolanda Marker (Astrodome), San Joaquin, Tanauan, and Palo Cathedral — in honor of those who perished during Yolanda.
“From that tragedy emerged a stronger sense of community. We rebuilt not just homes but hope. We restored not just roads and schools but the spirit of our people,” he said, noting that Leyte’s recovery story stands as a testament to the Filipino’s indomitable will.
He expressed gratitude to humanitarian partners, local leaders and countless volunteers who helped Leyte and the Visayas rise again after the catastrophic storm.
“The Yolanda generation proved that even in the face of unimaginable loss, the Filipino spirit cannot be broken. We learned to stand together, to care for one another, and to face every storm with courage and faith,” Romualdez declared.
As Typhoon Uwan threatens Northern and Central Luzon, the former Speaker called on all Filipinos to remain alert and united in ensuring zero casualties through proactive preparation and coordination between national agencies and local governments.
“As we remember Yolanda today (Saturday), we also face Typhoon Uwan, which weather forecasters say could reach super typhoon strength. I ask everyone to stay tuned to PAGASA, LGUs and response agencies, follow official advisories and prepare to move early if your area is at risk. Your safety always comes first,” he stated.
“Strength is in our collective action: magtulungan tayo sa gitna ng malakas na bagyong ito. And on the 12th anniversary of Yolanda, we reaffirm our commitment to work with mayors, governors, national agencies, responders and civic partners so that relief is swift and communities are safer after every storm,” Romualdez continued.
“May the memory of those we lost guide us toward unity and prudent action, and may God keep our people safe in the days ahead,” Romualdez added.
