The resilience of the Cebuanos shines brightly in the aftermath of the recent earthquake that struck Northern Cebu. In the town of Medellin, where we distributed non-food items as part of our relief efforts, one face stood out; warm, sincere, a smile belonging to Tatay Jesus Yaun.
During our visit, we had the chance to speak with Tatay Jesus about his experience during the earthquake. For him, the greatest miracle was that his family survived unharmed. Yet even now, they haven’t been able to sleep inside their home. Fear and anxiety still linger in this uncertain time. Despite this, Tatay Jesus presses on, doing what he can to rebuild and rise again.
He doesn’t ask for much. His dream is simple: to have the materials needed to rebuild their home, so his family can finally rest safely to restore a little bit of normalcy in their life. Even in the face of hardship, he remains hopeful. His smile radiates strength and hope and has become a quiet inspiration to many.
In times of crisis, it’s often the simplest things; a smile, a kind word, a helping hand that resonate most within a community. The earthquake may have shaken their homes and their ground, but it also stirred a deeper sense of unity, concern, and cooperation among neighbors.
“I will never forget those who helped. I will never forget that we are still alive. And as long as we live, we will keep going,” he said, speaking with gratitude while watching the relief distribution unfold, moved by the joyful faces of his fellow residents.
Medellin has been Tatay Jesus’ home for the past 30 years. The earthquake has made life uncertain in a place that had always been his family’s safe haven. He recalls how RAFI stood by them during Typhoon Yolanda and admits this crisis feels even more difficult, as recovery now seems further out of reach.
RAFI’s Relief Operations
RAFI has long been committed to serving communities affected by disasters. From Typhoon Yolanda to Typhoon Odette and other calamities, RAFI has consistently activated emergency operations to respond effectively and provide support to affected communities.
The recent earthquake is no exception. RAFI immediately launched its emergency operations center and initiated the “Dungan sa Pagbangon” response campaign, extending aid to seven municipalities in Northern Cebu: Bogo, Borbon, Daanbantayan, Medellin, San Remigio, Tabogon, and Tabuelan. Relief efforts included the distribution of food and non-food items, along with psychological first aid to help families cope emotionally.
RAFI continues to work toward reaching more families like that of Tatay Jesus. Through shared strength and compassion, we aim to restore dignity, foster hope, and support the Cebuano spirit of resilience.
Dungan sa Pagbangon!
