The foreword is based on the introduction to the discussion paper titled “Improving Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in the Philippines,” written by Jesha Villasis for Tarabangan Bicol DRRM Policy Study Group, dated November 13, 2024. It is intended as the synthesis of the four-session online conversations held by the group about DRRM, each led by a panel of resource speakers, last November 7 – 12, 2024. For her references, she cited David Michael V. Padua “Mr. Typhoon” and Jason Keith Bonaga who were among the panel resource speakers. The subsequent sections of this article are based on excerpts from the FB page of Tarabangan Bicol — from its inception through early December 2024.

Foreword: About Severe Tropical Storm Kristine

Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine has affected approximately 9.6 million individuals in the country and damaged at least PhP 7B worth of agriculture. STS Kristine was one of the worst typhoons to hit the Bicol Region. Cited as the “worst flooding in Naga City in 30 years,” it affected 774,192 families, displaced 173,367 individuals, and damaged at least PhP 3B worth of agriculture in the region. In the lived experience of the Bicolanos, it was the worst and most sustained flooding we experienced in our lifetimes. Flash floods rose quickly, destroying homes, forcing people to live on roofs for five days, drinking floodwater, blocking off key supply routes for days, blocking access to food and water; isolating communities, and causing diseases from leptospirosis, diarrhea, and pneumonia.

The initial immediate cause of massive floods brought by STS Kristine was heavy and sustained rainfall. We hypothesize that this heavy and sustained rainfall interacted with other hazards to produce a multi-hazard event:

STS Kristine’s flooding likely involved the combination of the different types of floods — riverine floods (galing ilog), pluvial or flash floods (independent of a natural water source), street floods (that might be caused by clogged drainage), and coastal floods, (caused by high tide or storm surges), each requiring different mitigation measures. This necessitates a comprehensive understanding of water flow patterns and contributing factors. While heavy rainfall was the initial cause of flooding, factors such as urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation exacerbated the situation. This complexity highlights the need for multi-hazard risk assessments and integrated disaster management strategies.

STS Kristine’s unprecedented rainfall leading to widespread flooding and destruction was brought about by a unique combination of meteorological factors such as the storm’s size, position, wind shear, movement speed, and MJO phase. The MJO phase, or the Madden-Julian Oscillation effect, is the eastward-moving disturbance that affects tropical rainfall patterns. When the MJO cycle is in the “wet phase”, which was the case during Typhoon Kristine’s landfall in the Philippines, it promotes increased rainfall compounding the storms’ effects which lead to Kristine’s unusually large scale. Typhoon Kristine also had a wide rainfall coverage, lasting over three days from October 21 to October 23. Partnered with this was the slow storm movement, prolonged heavy rainfall and moderate to strong windshear which resulted in constant downpour. This unprecedented nature of STS Kristine’s extreme rainfall made it difficult to precisely predict. Accurately predicting similar events in the future requires understanding the complex interplay of meteorological variables moving forward. There is therefore a need for resiliency and greater investment in understanding the science behind disaster risk.

Right after STS Kristine, Typhoons Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito hit the Philippines, all in just three weeks. These typhoons brought destruction to various parts of the country, severely hitting Regions 2 – Cagayan Valley, 3 – Central Luzon, and 5 – Bicol. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has noted this unusual phenomenon of having four cyclones simultaneously in the country. NASA adds that, as the Japan Meteorological Agency also reported, it was the first time since 1951 that several storms co-existed in the Pacific. These overlapping typhoons have depleted resources for disaster response, and ultimately, have caused disaster fatigue among affected communities.

We support the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) with the assertion that there is no such thing as a “natural disaster”.  The disasters or impacts of hazards are mediated by political and collective decisions we make. This insight underscores that effective disaster risk reduction must focus on addressing vulnerabilities rather than solely responding to hazards. For instance, understanding why certain areas flood requires examining natural processes and human activities—such as deforestation or urban development—influencing water flow patterns.

STS Kristine is a stark reminder of the devastating power of natural hazards and their profound impact on communities. The Bicol Region, in particular, experienced one of its worst flooding incidents in history, marked by rapid flash floods that destroyed homes and isolated communities and caused widespread health issues.

A shift from reactive disaster response to proactive preparedness is essential for minimizing future risks. While at peacetime, we have to create and do policies and programs to minimize and mitigate the future impacts of disasters.

Inception: Call for Volunteers

On October 22, 2024, parts of Camarines Sur and Albay were already experiencing continuous heavy rainfall spawned by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine. Videos of rising water levels were posted by local media outlets. Inundation from the rivers, creeks, and waterways were reported spilling beyond the embankments onto the streets and neighborhoods.

The call to action began soon after, initiated by peers through face-to-face meetings, exchanges of private messages among friends, group chat on social media or by phone calls. The ground swell of volunteer support grew exponentially starting in Naga City, then Camarines Sur and throughout Bicol and Metro Manila.

The pivotal moment came on October 24, 2024, when Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network was formed, declaring itself as a group of individuals across Bicol with the purpose of consolidating rescue and relief needs in response to Tropical Storm Kristine.

On the same day, a Monitoring Team led by Yani Zoilo and Marion Daquiaog, along with 75 volunteers mostly from Manila, actively monitored the status of rescue and relief requests. The team sent SMS blasts using the contact numbers provided in the requests. If no response was received within an hour, volunteers were instructed to call the contact person directly. Additional follow-ups were made every two hours, depending on volunteer availability. Urgent requests were forwarded to local government units (LGUs) and on-ground volunteers to expedite rescue operations.

The primary goal of the monitoring was to check the status of fellow Bikolanos affected by the storm. The team operated with the guiding principles of empathy and kindness, ensuring that the voices of those in need were heard and acted upon promptly.

The group posted a call for volunteers on its FB page, along with an appeal for donations which stated Tanging Yaman Foundation as its fundraising partner organization. The call for donations also included a solicitation for rescue boats, urgently needed for mobility on the floodwaters, and doxycycline, the antibiotic prescribed for waterborne diseases and injury during rescue and relief operations. At 8pm that evening, the group announced on its FB page its first fundraising achievement of P33K, indicating its receipts (cash and resources), donors, and disbursements in detail. It named its notification post as Transparency Report to demonstrate its commitment to openness and accountability.

First 84 Hours

During that same day October 24, members of the Rotary Club of Goa Partido and King Solomon Singers prepared and distributed 250 packed rice bowls to affected residents of Brgy. San Jose in Pili, Camarines Sur. Tarabangan volunteers, Odette Esteve, Carmaella Orbita, Aids Nuñez Abellado, and Cecilia Ocampo, coordinated and supported the relief operations.

On October 25, 2024, the group distributed food and water to 250 people in evacuation centers in Igualdad, Sabang, and Bombon, Camarines Sur. Kervin Borja, Jason Keith Bornaga, Jadi Castroverde, and other team members coordinated the efforts, supported by members of the Rotary Club of Naga Heights which donated 100 kilos of poultry and rice.

Through their collective efforts, the Tarabangan team served 220 individuals on October 26, 2024, in Tabuco, Naga City. They distributed relief goods which consisted of water, rice, sardines, noodles, coffee, and biscuits. This was made possible with the coordination of teachers Way Vell, Mildred Mae, and others from the NCSHS faculty.

Medical Care for Flood Victims

As the local health centers and equipment were destroyed by the floods, Tarabangan volunteer health care workers responded to the needs of the flood victims who were suffering from leptospirosis, diarrhea, malnutrition and dehydration, foot diseases, and pneumonia. The attending teams were in Baao Agdangan Elementary School (October 24), Bula Fabrica National High School (October 25), Camaligan Dugcal Evacuation Center (October 26), Magarao Convention Center (October 27) and held a coordination meeting with the Camarines Sur EDMERO and MSF (Doctors without Borders) on October 28. The team was proceeding in October 29 to Bula and Nabua with MSF (to Barangays Ombao, Polpog, and Bato); to isolated barangays in Balatan via boat from Pasacao or Bato. Planned for the succeeding days were Brgy San Agustin, Canaman (October 30) and Brgy La Purisima, Nabua (November 1). Also offered were free online teleconsultations. The health care team was led by Dr. Pura Jacobe Bascuña-Gaddi, Dr. Mercemarie Fajardo Atian, Dr. Ma Pado, Dr. Lchg Krvy, and Dr. Nonoy Severo. They also coordinated with the Philippine Association of Family Physicians and PAP Bicol on Psychosocial Support.

Transition

For over 84 hours, the Tarabangan volunteers conducted emergency operations. With the help of donors and partners, they sent more than P200,000 of funding to local community leaders in 17 municipalities in Bicol, supporting the smallest and most severely affected towns and barangays affected by Typhoon Kristine. With over 300 volunteers, who themselves lost so much due to the typhoon, they brought urgent rescue, relief, search, and medical assistance to families in need.

The group declared it would wind down their emergency operations beginning on October 27, 2024. This meant stopping the logging of requests for assistance from the flood victims. Pending requests for rescue, relief, medical, and search were referred to NGO relief operations and local government contacts. These included 1,400+ online requests from 27,000 individuals from 23 municipalities. Internally, it kept its coordination chats open for support purposes, particularly for resource requests.

It continued to promote online teleconsultations with Bicol Medical Center Department of Family and Community Medicine and coordination with BMC on their medical deployments to the evacuation centers in most need.

Furthermore, it kept its donation channels open, so people can continue to refer donors to our broad Bicol network. Donations will be deployed to local community leaders who actually utilize its online aid request data to guide their response based on their field assessments.

Tarabangan would transition operations into policy and budgeting recommendations. Based on their experiences, the group can inform on and assist in the formulation of Local Provincial and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management policies.

Creation of DRRM Policy (Tarabangan Bicol)

On October 26, 2024, Tarabangan Bicol lead coordinator, Kenneth Isaiah Ibasco Abante, convened the DRRM (Disaster Risk Reduction and Management) policy and budget study group in FB Messenger. However, it took him three more days before he could spell out in detail the purposes, scope and strategy for the group as emergency response operations continued in Libon and other parts of Bicol.

In his welcome message, Ken Abante announced that Tarabangan – Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network was invited to give input to a legislative hearing on DRR and to share its experiences and recommendations. Responding to his invitation were committed and talented community of scientists, researchers, typhoon survivors, disaster risk reduction and management officers, and local first responders. There were about 18 in the chat group at first of more than 50 members and growing. However, many were still in emergency operations and doing field work. He asked the group to bring the voices of typhoon survivors and local first responders to national policy:

Good afternoon, everyone! Hoping you and your loved ones are safe and thank you for all the selfless work you do serving your communities after Typhoon Kristine.

I am Ken Abante from Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network; we are a community of more than 300 volunteers responding to the hardest hit and hardest to reach communities in the Bicol Region. We organized last Wednesday (October 24), and now we’ve coordinated rescue, relief, medical, and search missions in 17 municipalities around the region.

While the political window is open for possible improvements in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) policy and implementation, we wanted to organize a conversation about disaster risk reduction management (DRRM) policy and budgeting.

Our Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network was invited to a national legislative hearing to share our experiences and recommendations by the third week of November (still to be confirmed), so conversations here would be very useful for our testimony. Our main objective in the testimony is to bring the voices of typhoon survivors, first responders, and researchers to the conversation.

May I therefore invite everyone to a conversation?

DRRM Policy and Governance

Kenneth Abante outlined the topics and questions on how their initial experiences, scoping, and surveying of the field of evidence will be shared during their first conversation set for October 30:

General question:

Typhoon Kristine was one of the most destructive typhoons in the history of the Bicol region, exposing risks, gaps, and opportunities in disaster response, health, social welfare response, infrastructure, economic recovery, and other governance systems. In preparing for and responding to Typhoon Kristine, what went well and what can be improved?

Sub-Questions:

1. What policy tools and budgets do local governments have to improve disaster risk, reduction, and management? Which tools did your local government units use effectively for Typhoon Kristine? Can you share the most important studies to our chat?
2. What policy tools and budgets does the national government have for disaster risk, reduction, and management? Which tools did they use effectively for Typhoon Kristine? Can you share the most important studies to our chat?
3. Billions have been spent on “flood control” projects in the Bicol region. Why was the devastation from Typhoon Kristine still this massive? What are other more effective approaches on disaster risk reduction and management, including but not limited to “flood management” and nature-based solutions? Can you share sources to our chat?
4. We know that the foundation of any strong emergency response is an empowered community of first responders. What support do we need from government and other sectors and from our community to do our work better serving our communities?
5. How can we make DRRM more preventive and proactive in approach in the future?

Kenneth Abante then enumerated the steps to be taken following the first conversation scheduled on October 30: send out the synthesis of insights from the initial discussion on causes of the calamity for the group to comment; propose a series of information sessions to learn more about the interconnected causes and factors that led to the flooding, including reforestation, water patterns, disaster budget utilization, and other matters, for the group to comment; and enjoin the group to keep sending in useful resources and other related research. Subsequently, Ken proposed the following topics for discussion and suggested certain topics can be merged into a single talk. Each talk would run about 15-20 minutes each, or alternatively 30 minutes each if by a panel:

1. Water Flow and Flooding: How does water flow through the Bicol River Basin? How did it flow during Typhoon Kristine (if studies are already available), or previous typhoons?
2. Bicol River Basin Development Program: What is it and how did the program propose to manage flooding in the area? What are the aspects of the program that have been implemented and have not been implemented?
3. Nature-Based Flood Management, Reforestation in The Watershed And Urban Tree Covers: What are the nature-based flood management solutions? How does reforestation help mitigate flood risk? What is the status of the reforestation of the Mt. Isarog Protected Reserve, the watershed, and the surrounding areas in the Bicol River Basin?
4. DRRM Laws, Policies, And Budgets: What are the existing laws and frameworks around DRRM? What are the existing budgets that the national government and local government could mobilize to engage in disaster prevention and response? Have these powers under the law? Have these budgets been fully utilized?
5. Zero Casualty DRRM Operations and Community-Based DRRM: How can we best support local emergency responders in DRRM to achieve zero casualty? How might we further empower our community of local first responders across Bicol?
6. Disaster Resilience in Public Health, Education, and Social Services: How might we improve resilience and continuity in health, education, and social services during disasters?
7. Early Warning Signals for Multi-Hazard Events: How might we support national and local weather forecasters in improving models for early warning signals?

The DRRM Conversations, Session 1

On November 7, the first conversation on Zoom, reflecting on the lessons and experiences from Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine, was about “Understanding Disaster Risk.” The session topics discussed were Rainfall, Flooding and Waterflow, Risk Assessment, Early Warning Signals, Disaster Intelligence for Multi-Hazard Events, Community Engagement, Indigenous Knowledge, and Public Awareness.

The panel resource speakers were: (1) Jason Keith Bonaga, Adjunct Faculty, Asian Institute of Management, Community-based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM); (2) David Michael V. Padua “Mr. Typhoon,” Typhoon Specialist, Typhoon 2000; (3) Francis Gladys Belmin-Abad, Executive Director, Kolping Society Philippines, Inc.; (4) Joanaviva C. Plopenio, OIC, Institute for Environmental Conservations and Research (INECAR), Ateneo de Naga University; (5) Cathleen Joyce Cordero, Project Senior Technical Specialist, PHIVOLCS-DYNASLOPE Project: People-Centered Early Warning System, and (6) Dr. Mahar Lagmay, Executive Director, Project NOAH.

The DRRM Conversations, Session 2

The second conversation on Zoom held on November 8 was about “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance to Manage Disaster Risk.” The panel discussions were led by: (1) Lou Gepuela, Community-Based DRRM Advocate, former coordinator of Project Agos, Rappler; Former Chief Project Evaluation Officer, Inter-Agency Task Force Yolanda; (2) Wilfredo B. Prilles Jr., Naga City Planning and Development Officer; (3) Dr. Ricky P. Laureta, Partido State University, Researcher on the Bicol River Basin Development Project; (4) Dr. Grace Laguyo Carino, DENR Region 2 Assistant Regional Director for Management Service; (5) Ian James S. Secillano, Environmental Planner, Municipal DRRM Officer, Libon, Albay; and (6) Dennis Dela Torre, Chief Science Research Specialist, University of the Philippines – Resilience Institute.

The DRRM Conversations, Session 3

The third of four conversations was held on November 11 and sought to identify what worked and what can be improved in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) policies and operations. The panel speakers were: (1) Ben Fredrick R. Rodriguez, MCDRM, EMDRCM, Director for Innovative Projects, Resilient PH; (2) Ret. Vice Admiral Alexander Patino Pama, Co-Chair of ARISE Philippines, Former Executive Director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council; (3) Dr. Pura Jacobe Bascuña-Gaddi, Tarabangan Doctors, Diplomate in Family and Community Medicine; (4) Mylce Mella-Competente, Co-Lead, Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network; COO, CreedoGroup Inc., Former ABS-CBN Regional Correspondent; (5) JR Dizon, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator, LGU Luna, La Union; (6) Arnel Capili, Director, Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, and (7) Mathew-Jule Altamarino Naoe, Canaman Young Leaders for Empowerment Organization Inc., SK Canaman.

The DRRM Conversations, Session 4

The 4th conversation held on November 12, 2024, focused on the lessons and experiences from Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine and aimed to identify what worked and what can be improved in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) policies and operations.

The discussion panel speakers were: (1) Atty. Leni Gerona Robredo, Former Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines; Founder, Angat Buhay (Angat Pinas, Inc.); (2) Dr. Chad Michael Briggs, Professor and Academic Program Director, Executive Master in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management, Asian Institute of Management; (3) Dr. Kristoffer B. Berse, Dean, UP National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG); Former Director, Research and Creative Work of the UP Resilience Institute (UPRI); (4) Atty. Mila Raquid-Arroyo, Author of the Naga City People’s Budget Ordinance of 2017; Former Councilor, City Government of Naga; (5) Huberto Senosin, Jr., Project Lead, Meal for Happiness Project; Co-Lead and Area Coordinator, Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network; Volunteer Lead, Hubi and Friends; and (6) Reycel Hyacenth Nacario Bendaña, Co-Lead and Finance Coordinator, Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer.

Summation and Synthesis

The draft of the summation and synthesis of the conversations, dated November 17, written by Jesha Villasis (We Solve Foundation researcher and project manager; professor, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas, and policy consultant of the Sangguniang Bayan of Mariveles, Bataan) along with the reaction and response, dated November 25, by Jason Keith Bonaga (Adjunct Faculty, Asian Institute of Management, Community-based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) and VP Public Relations, Yellow Boat of Hope USA), both posted on the Tarabangan DRRM Policy chat group will published in a separate Dateline Ibalon article.

Padagos an Tabang, October 27 – November 2

The intended pause in emergency relief operations did not happen.

On October 27, volunteers served in Libon, Albay led by the Student-Volunteers for Libon who were able to reach approximately 860 individuals (230 families) in Brgy. Sta. Cruz and Brgy. San Agustin. The team delivered 230 relief packs and clothes. The donors were the student volunteers themselves and Janea’s Collection. At the Inapatan evacuation center in Nabua, Camarines Sur, breakfast for evacuees were provided. The team was led by Reycel Hyacenth Nacario Bendaña, a lead coordinator for Tarabangan. In Magarao, Camarines Sur, a team of doctors and nurses provided medical checkups. Dr. Darlene Garcera MHO-Magarao organized the event.

On October 28, Ahon Canaman Relief Operations made it to Brgy. San Roque and Talidtid where the team distributed water using gallon containers to refill supplies for 60 families. A Tarabangan team reached Bgy. Iquin in coastal Canaman with the assistance of SK Chair Aaron Basbas, Kgwd. Albert Valle and Kgwd. Chona Bombase. Doxycycline, medicine for children, bulk of donated clothes, hot meals, and water were distributed in the Bgy. Sua covered court. The donors and partners were Naga College Foundation, Project Iskomunidad, Association of Bicol Business Students – ADNU Chapter, NCF – Community Extension Service, NCF RCY, and Bicolanos from the UK and Australia.

That same day, there was a separate team in Anayan, Pili, Camarines Sur, that reached 644 individuals and delivered 161 relief packs, donated by residents of the barangay via Kagawad Glo Valenzuela. Another team reached approximately 400 individuals in Brgy. Francia, Iriga City, and delivered hot meals and food to affected communities, donated by individual donors and partners, Batch 79 of Paracale High School, Triskelion Iriga Sumagang Council, and Tambayan Grill. Elsewhere in Brgy. Bigajo Sur, Libmanan, approximately 235 individuals were provided with relief packs each consisting of 2 kilos of rice, sardines, coffee, sugar, and noodles. The participating donors and partners were the Society of the Divine Word Congregation and the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate Congregation. Likewise, in Brgy. Bigajo Sur, Milaor, approximately 147 individuals received food and clean drinking water from individual donors. The relied mobilizers Kim Pomperada, Clarence Pomperada, John Patrick Ilao, Seir Andrei Cabase, Erika Brecio, and Gail Rebullida.

Relief teams were deployed on October 29 in Bula, Minalabac, Gainza and several other areas in Camarines Sur and Bicol in partnership with the team of Mylce Mella team, Doctors Without Borders / Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Angat Buhay and many others. The Bula relief ops team was headed by Ms. Dessa Mae Brocante with the assistance of MDRRMO Bula headed by Donna Jardinel, the Minalabac relief ops team headed by S. Albis and the Gainza team headed by Sr. Hubi Senosin. The data gathering team headed by Glad Belmin.

As reported by S. Albis, the Minalabac team distributed on that day relief packs, water, and hot meals at Balyong Salog, Del Carmen, Del Rosario, Balyong Salog, San Juan, San Lorenzo (Poblacion).  The Help Bicol Mission Team was headed by Mylce Mella with the support of donors and partners: GCF Naga Donors, Youth, Friends and Volunteers, Che and Doy Sto. Domingo and Staff of Chef Doy’s Gourmet Restaurant and 2D Café, Dr. Steve and Lei Bonilla of The Coffee Table, Dr. Julius and Catherine Co-Soriano, Boyet and Carissa Capili, Mel Basquina of Mel’s Choice Drinking Water, Robertson Hernandez of RMK, Jennalyn Batung, Nestor Sta. Maria III of 3N Bakery, Rainier Savilla of UPAA Camarines Sur, and Veronica Fernandez of FVM Pharmacy. Distribution was handled by DEEP Responders – Divers for Emergency & Eco-marine Protection.

SK Youth Manapao’s relief efforts were in Barangay Baliuag Viejo in Minalabac, Camarines Sur. They managed to reach Sitio Badang, which was still heavily flooded, and went to the Barangay Hall to give out hot goto soup. Meanwhile, Purok Tres Youth Organization of Barangay Mataoroc (also in Minalabac), partnered with Barangay Mataoroc to feed residents of Barangay San Jose. Elsewhere in Libmanan, Camarines Sur, OMI-SVD Disaster Response Volunteers led by Rev. Fr.Eduardo Cariño Vasquez Jr. distributed relief goods in Barangay Bigajo Sur.

On October 29, the LGU-Milaor Employees Association distributed donated relief goods, consisting of cooked meals, bottled water, crackers and hygiene kits, to more than 500 flood victims in Milaor. The donors were Sigma Delta Pi Sorority UP-Manila, with the individual support of Mrs. Cely Caida, Mayor Anthony R. Reyes, First Lady Odessa Reyes, Vice-Mayor Leodel Menes, Kgwd. Lairenz Bañaga, Kgwd. Bruno Felizmenio, Mrs. Maria D. Cano, Kgwd. Rodrigo F. Tanaotanao, Kgwd. Josephine Hidalgo, Kgwd. Enrico Tanaotanao, Mrs. Evangeline T. Marquez and Kgwd. Lyndon A. Gases. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Milaor and the Philippine Coast Guard assisted in the logistics and physical distribution.

On October 30, cargo trucks left Metro Manila bound for Ateneo de Naga loaded with rice packs, medicines, cleaning implements, slippers, and other relief essentials. These were donated by partners and benefactors of ADNU, Jesuit Volunteers Philippines and the Tarabangan Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network.

Padagos an Tabang, November 3 – 9

On November 3, the Espiritu-Ibasco family, inspired by Tarabangan – Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network, conducted its relief operations in Angustia, Nabua, Camarines Sur. The family members and USEC Niña Taduran, raised ₱68K in cash and collected bottles of distilled water and packs of used clothes to aid the flood victims and evacuees from San Isidro, Nabua. The family distributed 200 pcs. of food packs (bihon with Spanish bread and fruit juice; 165 relief packs with 2kg rice, 2L distilled water, noodles, corned beef, meat loaf, sardines, crackers, coffee, milk; hygiene kits with toothpaste, toothbrush, body soap, detergent bar, shampoo; baby diapers and clean clothes for newborns, kids, adults; and candies as post-Halloween treats for the kids.

On November 4, relief operations were conducted for Brgy. Camangahan, Balatan, Camarines Sur and distributed 115 relied packs, 16 cases of bottled water, preloved clothes, and hot meals, thanks to the generosity of Meal for Happiness Project, Mylce Mella/ Chef Doys, Ches Cunanan/ Community Kitchen, BLGU of Camangahan, Pauline Mae Baluca, donors of Hubi and Friends with assistance by volunteers, Andro Oberos Aynera and Chang Amy. Transport from Naga to Balatan was provided by Adel Fajardo.

From November 7 to 12, the Tarabangan volunteers gathered to meet online to conduct conversations and to discuss the lessons and experiences from Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine guided by the expertise and experiences of their resource speakers. Sadly, on November 14, the network would turn their attention to yet another potentially devastating weather system, Severe Tropical Storm Pepito.

Preparations for Typhoon Pepito

Still reeling from the overwhelming disaster caused by Typhoon Kristine, parts of the Bicol Region suffered from yet another typhoon, named Pepito, the sixth consecutive tropical system in less than a month, entered the Philippine area of responsibility. It grew in strength at first as a Super Typhoon, before it weakened as it made its first landfall in Panganiban, Catanduanes, on November 15. After which, the system slightly degraded, with the western half becoming less organized as it passed north of the Calaguas Islands in Camarines Norte. The following day, Pepito made its second landfall in Dipaculao, Aurora.

On November 14, to prepare for the upcoming Typhoon Pepito, the Tarabangan Bicol team met. The group’s volunteer disaster risk management expert, Jason Keith Bonaga facilitated the meeting. On November 16, as Typhoon Pepito was expected to bring a high-risk storm surge, immediate and preemptive evacuation was strongly advised for residents in coastal, riverine, landslide-prone, and volcanic lahar-risk areas. People were asked to proceed to the nearest designated evacuation center without delay, with EDMERO Camarines Sur and local government units across the Bicol Region leading the action. The Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO-5) deployed over 1,600 officers to assist and maintain safety at evacuation centers.

Pagpoon kan Pepito Relief Operations, November 17-23

On November 17, team members of Tarabangan Bicol were at the Catanduanes towns of Bagamanoc, Panganiban, and Viga, to monitor the conditions on the ground after Typhoon Pepito made landfall and veered towards Camarines Norte. Photos were provided by Rhea Chloe C. Peña. Elsewhere in the coastal town of Bombon, Camarines Sur, the SK Federation, consisting of SK Chairmen and youth volunteers, provided warm, nourishing meals to residents in the evacuation centers as a preemptive response to Typhoon Pepito. They reached out to San Francisco, San Roque, Siembre, Sto. Domingo. Dedicated volunteers were also in the evacuation area of Sua, Canaman, where they served hot meals to the residents. They were supported by Hubi and friends and Tarabangan Bicol donors.

On November 17, situation photos were posted regarding conditions in the coastal communities of Bgy. Binagasbasan and Bgy. Harrison, in Garchitorena; Bgy. Toboan in Caramoan; Maqueda Elementary School in Caramoan.

The scale of destruction in Caramoran was heartbreaking. The powerful winds and relentless rain from Super Typhoon Pepito left countless homes totally destroyed, displacing families and turning once vibrant communities into fields of debris. Many residents now face the overwhelming challenge of rebuilding their lives from scratch. Tarabangan once again posted its urgent need for relief essentials: food, water, clothing, and temporary shelter for those who have lost their dwellings.

The team reported on the dire situation in Bgy. Banocboc in Calaguas Islands, a far cry from its renowned picturesque seascape. Punong Barangay Welisa B. Salen reported that the their livelihoods were devastated. The community needed food to sustain the families, drinking water, especially for infants, medicines for health and recovery and nipa pawid for shelter reconstruction.

Elsewhere that same day, Sitio Malindog in Bgy. Gibgos, Caramoan, was reported to be devastated after Pepito, with 80% of homes destroyed, leaving countless families without shelter and struggling to meet their basic needs. Once again, Tarabangan appealed for more food, clean drinking water, materials for shelter reconstruction, essential medicines and first aid supplies, hygiene and sanitation kits, and beddings for the affected families. Drop off locations were posted for Balatas, Naga City and Canaman, Camarines Sur.

On November 18, the San Andres Volunteers Network team members brought hot meals for the people in San Vicente, Catanduanes. Funds that the network and its sponsors raised were used to prepare and serve warm, nourishing sopas in four barangays in Panganiban, Sta. Ana St., San Juan St., Sta. Maria St., and Bagong Bayan.

Elsewhere that same day, volunteer Sherwin Burac reported on the situation in the Calaguas group of islands comprised of three island-barangays, Banocboc, Pinagtigasan, and Mangcawayan. He appealed for assistance and relief essentials for the affected 1,934 households in the islands.

In Daet, Dr. Goldie Tejada, a dedicated Tarabangan volunteer doctor delivered four boxes of essential medicines to the Municipal Health Office (MHO) of Vinzons. These were bound for three barangays in the Calaguas Islands: Banocboc, Mancawayan, and Pinagtigasan,

Meantime along the coastal barangays of Tabaco, Albay, the area coordinator, Arkie Bermas, brought hot meals first to Bonto, Sto. Cristo, then to Tayhi, with the help of Carol Bondoc, Ali Bataller, service/cook Rey Bellen and the Tayhi Youth Volunteers.

The next day on November 19, volunteers brought hot meals to the residents of Quezon, Bagamanoc in Catanduanes. In Calaguas, essential medicines donated by the Tarabangan Doctors and the Rotary Club of Goa, Partido, were delivered thanks to volunteer, RJ Lopez.

Distribution of hot meals continued in the Hitoma area of Caramoran, Catanduanes, with the help of Caramoran area coordinators and volunteers from Kulturang Catandungan, Inc.

On November 20, Camarines Norte area coordinators and ground volunteers, with the support of Rotaract Club of Daet prepared and packed 300 hygiene kits, including soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and laundry powder). These were intended for the three major barangays in Calaguas – Banocboc, Pinagtigasan, and Mangcawayan. The fearless volunteers sailed on rough seas to deliver the hygiene kits and distribute hot meals and clean drinking water. The kitchen facilities of MT2 were used in food preparation. Markel Roldan provided boats to reach the islands. The volunteers described their experience as “buwis-buhay.”

During that same day, Dessa Mae Broncate, a Tarabangan lead coordinator, mobilized her team of volunteers bound for Garchitorena in the Partido area which was also severely affected by Pepito. She brought food, water, relief packs, and children’s toys for Bgy, Burabod.

Barangay Binagasbasan, an island in Garchitorena, was left in utter devastation after Super Typhoon Pepito. The Tarabangan volunteers saw homes that were flattened and unrecognizable in the wake of the storm, leaving families without shelter or safety. The local livelihood is deeply tied to the sea, and without the ability to fish, these families have no source of income. The situation was dire, and the need for help was urgent.

In Lagonoy, volunteers from Our Lady of Peñafrancia Parish served hot meals to the residents of Brgy. Balaton. Elsewhere in Hitoma in Caramoan, Catanduanes, the San Andres Volunteers distributed hot meals. These were prepared by SK officials from seven barangays. Meanwhile, it was already during the evening hours, when the ground volunteers from Magic Five Brotherhood Bagamanoc accompanied by Ms. Rhea, area coordinator, reached Bgy. Antipolo and Bgy. Bagatabao in Catanduanes to distribute hot meals.

November 20 continued to be a busy day as ground volunteers from Nuestra Señora de la Paz y Buenviaje Parish, Tandoc, Siruma, helped in the island barangay of Butawanan where they prepared and distributed hot meals on-site. In the photos, children were shown using “barani,” or banana stalks, as plates for their food. Elsewhere in the coastal communities of San Roque, Cabangan, and San Ramon in Tabaco, volunteers provided hot meals to the residents.

On November 19 – 20, the Tarabangan volunteers reached barangays Hiyop, Copo, and Balognonan in Pandan, Catanduanes. In coordination with the Local Government of Pandan and Red Cross Philippines, they distributed hot meals to more than 1,500 individuals in these communities affected by Typhoon Pepito. Another team continued on the move on November 21, with Hubi and Friends (led by Hubi Senosin) delivering help and relief goods in Bgy. Oring as well as Lahuy Island in Caramoan. They were supported by Gawad Kalinga, Christ’s Youth in Action – Bicol, SK of Oring and Daraga.

On November 21, an appeal for support was made regarding Project Padaba. During one of the Tarabangan Bicol meetings, Yani Zoilo, Project Lead of School Kits for Kids, learned that children in affected areas were playing with wrecked materials. Moved by this, Yani, with the help of her friends and Love Education Philippines, managed to collect and send the first batch of toys to children in Garchitorena within the same week. Project Padaba later sought assistance from Hubi and Friends, a member of Tarabangan Bicol, to amplify the initiative.

In Bicolano, “padaba” means care or love—and that’s exactly what the volunteers aim to share with children affected by Typhoons Kristine and Pepito. They aspire to bring hope, love, and healing through simple gifts like toys, providing moments of joy and reassurance that they are deeply cared for, even in the toughest times. More than just aid, these children need comfort and a sense of normalcy.

As of today, Project Padaba is collaborating with 10 organizations based in Manila to send more toys to provinces in Bicol, further spreading love and hope to the kids affected by the typhoon. 

Volunteers led by Sam Escueta reached the typhoon-hit barangay islands of Banocboc, Pinagtigasa, and Mangcawayan in Calaguas, Vinzons, Camarines Norte on November 21. They brought not just assistance but strong solidarity with these coastal communities. On that same day, a separate team made it to the island barangays of Oring, Daraga, Gogon, and Gata in Caramoan. Fueled by compassion and a shared mission, they brought relief assistance donated by the Domingo de Guzman Parish in Tabgon, Caramoan, with the support of Jun of Agrabah, and Hubi and Friends.

On November 22, volunteers from St. Anthony of Padua Parish prepared hot meals intended for Barangay Sulpa, Siruma. Volunteers in Bgy. Marambong of Catanduanes reported on the extensive damage suffered by the community and appealed for help as the residents seek to rebuild and recover. The same was true in Caramoan, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and diverse marine life. The locals were in urgent need of help as Typhoon Pepito left them with limited access to essential commodities and immediate relief. Volunteers with assistance of the Caramoan PNP were in Bgy. Haponan. Relief goods were also being delivered to Bgy. Isla Lahuy donated by the Ateneo de Naga University intended for St. Dominic Parish of Caramoan

On 22 November 2024, dedicated volunteers reached Brgy. Haponan in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, and brought relief packs, hot meals, and clothing to communities affected by Typhoon Pepito. This mission of hope and solidarity was made possible by Tomasinong Bicolano (Camarines Sur Chapter) and the Caramoan Municipal Police Station.

The group cast the spotlight on Dessa Mae Broncate, the power volunteer and all-around woman of Tarabangan HQ, where she did the heavy lifting to receive in-kind donations. From fundraising, to lifting, to repacking, and to distributing on the ground, Ms. Dessa did everything for the victims of the calamities. Meanwhile, the group appealed for support for the storm ravaged communities in Panganiban, Catanduanes, as the families urgently needed assistance.

On November 22, after travelling for 6 hours from the mainland to Isla Lahuy, Caramoan, the first batch of relief goods were distributed by Hubi and Friends. The logistics were a bit challenging as the goods had to be transported first from Naga to Caramoan in the mainland, and then moved to Isla Lahuy, bound for the island barangays. The donors, volunteers, and recipients worked hand in hand in partnership with Tarabangan Bicol, Hubi and Friends, Gawad Kalinga, Christ’s Youth in Action- Bicol, and Meals for HappinessProject, with the support of Sitio Lipata, Caramoan, and the St. Dominic of Guzman Parish of Tabgon, Caramoan.

On November 23, 2024, 300 food packs were distributed to 148 families affected by Pepito in Marambong, Pandan, Catanduanes. The group thanked Sir Jemar Condeno, Father Ponpon of Kalinga Foundation, Father Flavie of Tessam, and the youth volunteers for their help.

A situation report was posted that same day for Sitio Guinahoan Island, Brgy. Daraga, Caramoan. According to on-ground contacts, around 32 houses were totally washed out by Typhoon Pepito, including the sitio’s daycare center. About 107 houses were partially damaged. Another situation report was made for 30 families in need in Sitio Lansihan, Brgy. San Miguel, Baras, Catanduanes. The residents relied on farming income from abaca and bananas. They requested a water filtration system, vitamins, medicine for flu and diarrhea, hot meals, slippers, clothes, and seeds to restart their livelihood. Their children were already suffering from malnutrition even prior to the typhoon. Thus the parents pleaded for  in-kind donations for the kids.

A significant milestone was reported on November 23 with the contract signing between Agapay Albay, Loveis2Big, Save for Water Philippines, Albay Young Farmers Organization Inc., Coca-Cola Foundation, and LGU Pandan/BLGUs. Waves for Water PH donated five water filter units to serve the communities of Barangay Sta. Cruz, Barangay Tariwara, Barangay Lumabao, and Barangay Balognonan in Catanduanes.

Padagos kan Relief Operations and Outreach to Schools, November 24-30

On November 24, a situation report was posted for Macolabo Island right across from Pulang Daga in Paracale, Camarines Norte. The community of 250 families on this remote island was seldom visited during previous calamities. The team brought food, water and relief packs. The residents need water, hygiene kits and tarpaulin for temporary shelter.

On November 24, help arrived in Pasacao. The hardworking volunteers from Akbay Tugon worked tirelessly to repack and deliver supplies, clothes, and seedlings to the fisherfolks in Pasacao. It took the team two hours by banca to reach Brgy. Tinalmud, Pasacao.

Elsewhere, another team reached Bgy 1, Garchitorena, Camarines Sur, early in the morning after nearly 4 hours of travel by sea. The volunteers distributed relief packs to families-in-need and toys for the children. In another village in Garchitorena, a group of volunteers made it to Bgy. Bahi by early evening to also deliver relief packs to families-in-need and toys for the children. The team also turned over two water filter units donated by Waves for Water PH.

During that day, volunteers Harley Dominique and Mathew-Jule Altamarino Naoe were guests at Radio RMN 91.1 to introduce Tarabangan Bicol Network and its relief operations to a wider audience.

On November 25, the network shifted its attention to the schools affected by Typhoon Pepito. It posted a situation report for Burabod Elementary School, Bgy. Burabod in Garchitorena, Camarines Sur. Because the school building was damaged, teachers opted to use their homes as makeshift classrooms when classes resumed. They also generously offered their homes as evacuation centers. Squarefoot, an NGO, also donated tarpaulins to serve as temporary shelter. In a situation report posted later, the volunteers said: “Ini pong harong na ini, trapal na lang talaga iniistaran ninda. Mainiton po ining trapal na ini.”

During that same day, help arrived in Sitio Lat-as, Balatohan, San Miguel, Catanduanes. The volunteers distributed rice and hygiene kits to 70 families with the help of volunteers, Cassandra and Shellah, the BHWs, and the Barangay Captain.

In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Kristine and Super Typhoon Pepito, many children in Bicol were left without the basic school supplies they need to continue their education. Even as many homes were destroyed, school buildings were damaged, and classrooms were flooded, leaving these school children without materials and a safe space to learn. On November 25, Biggs, Inc., in partnership with Tarabangan – Bicol Disaster Volunteer Network and Tanging Yaman Foundation, began sending school kits to help these children get back on track. These kits are more than just supplies; they’re a reminder that despite the storms, their dreams can still soar.

Tarabangan Bicol Volunteer Network was invited to serve as a resource person at the Disaster Risk Reduction and Mitigation in Schools Meeting with The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) scheduled for November 28, 2024. In response to this opportunity, the group invited teachers to share their experiences and challenges to help advocate for better support systems at the Congress and National Level. The teachers’ input would be crucial in advocating for more systematized disaster support and resources for the schools and students during calamities.

On November 28, hot meals were provided for Bgy. Binagasbasan, an island in Garchitorena as classes resumed. The volunteers prepared the meals with the support of parishioners of Our Lady of Peñafrancia Parish in Balaton along with Barangay Pastoral Council President Rowena San Gabriel and her members. Hubi and Friends were doing relief work in the island barangays of Oring, Daraga, Gogon, Gata, and Malindog in Caramoan. At that point, Tarabangan began transitioning its relief operations into rehabilitation as more families needed assistance in rebuilding their homes. On November 30, Allan Popa reported the distribution of hot meals to Dariao and Buenavista, Caramoran, Catanduanes. The 350-400 servings of lugaw of chicken and rice was made possible by Dariao National High School (David Sarmiento, principal) and Daday’s Lugawan (Pay Bidal Condeno and his wife). Members of Salaysay Catandunganon from Virac, Caramoran at Gigmoto brought storytelling and art activity and distributed children’s books, notebooks, light snacks as part of a psychosocial intervention. Because of the challenges in bringing hot meals up to Buenavista, located at a higher elevation, the huge pots of lugaw were cooked in Dariao and carried up by volunteers. They were able to feed about 200 residents there.

Project Padaba Outreach, December 1- 21

Families in Sitio Lansihan, San Miguel, Baras, Catanduanes received slippers, hot meals and hygiene kits from the Tarabangan volunteers on December 1, made possible by donations from Michigan USA Bicolanos, Friends for Bangon Bikol Group, and Sunny Sevilla.

On December 2, school kits and toys for children were provided to Cagbunga Elementary School in Pamplona, Camarines Sur. These were donated by the Colegio de Sta. Isabel HS Batch ’82, through the kindness of Dabarkads ’82. Their teachers and parents also received some Christmas tokens. Elsewhere, school kits were provided for 166 kindergarten pupils in Nabua West Central School, Nabua. These were donated by No One Left Out through Ms. Jamm Teoxon, John Noel Zoilo and Ms. Glad Belmin, assisted by the Tarabangan Bicol Volunteers, Ms. Lovely Camposana — Project Development Officer, and the San Isidro OFW Association who packed and distributed the kits.

Through their Project Padaba, on December 7, volunteers brought smiles and hope to the children of Bgy. Bahay in Caramoan, Camarines Sur by delivering toys and meals donated by Meal for Happiness Project, the Purpose Partners of Kits for Bulilits and Ms. Pia Ranada of Rappler. On December 8, 98 students in Sitio Pawikan, Caramoan received gifts from Project Padaba and School Kits for Kids, thanks to the generosity of Meals for Happiness Project and the Basilica Lay Formation Institute. Project Padaba volunteers brought joy to the children of Sampaloc, Gainza, Camarines Sur with gifts donated by Meal for Happiness Project, CYA UNC, CYA CBSUA Calabanga, ACLC HS Naga, The Abba’s Orchard School, Mary the Queen Parish Youth Ministry, Kits for Bulilits, Eastwood Park Residences, UF Food Ventures, and other partner organizations. Padagos an pagpadaba sa mga aki when toys and relief goods were received on December 11 for Project Padaba from doctors and medical technologists through Matthew Pacardo, and the Ateneo Banking and Finance Association.

On December 15, the volunteers led by Hubi and Friends shared baby clothes, hot meals, and toys with the kids in Siembre, Bombon, Camarines Sur, donated by the Sheridan Towers Communities. On December 20, the same team turned to Noche Buena giving as they distributed relief packs donated by Institutes Canada – Planning for Canada PH Team to 20 families in Minalabac, Camarines Sur. On December 21, Tarabangan volunteers distributed hot meals to families affected by Super Typhoon Pepito in Barangay Osmeña, Viga, Catanduanes. Under the Balik Bahay Project initiative, the Rotaract Club of Virac, Tarabangan Bicol supported the distribution of construction materials to families in Caramoran, Catanduanes.

During the previous week on December 8, hot meals were distributed in a school in Almojuela, Viga, Catanduanes, through the efforts of the SK of Viga. On December 12, volunteers distributed hot meals to 3 barangays, Obi, Iyao and Burabod, thanks to the support of Papa Dan Bagay and stake holders, assisted by CSF GSP Troop 271, CSF alumni, CSF Barkada Kontra Droga/ BKD/(Baso ng Lugaw Kontra Droga), CSF Grade 9 MAPEH SY ’24-’25 Obi, Iyao and Bulalacao/ Burabod Group, BURABOD and the 7 Boys ( Burabod 4H Club). Volunteers helped the community of Gigmoto, Catanduanes with the delivery of shelter materials on December 21. Elsewhere in Camarines Sur, he volunteers led by Hubi and Friends were back in Gainza on December 21 distributing relief goods donated by the Cielos family and Nikki Pado Popanes.

Transparency Report Update

As of November 25, 2024, per their most recent Transparency Report, Tarabangan Bicol raised Php 287K, 92% of the cash donations was utilized.

About the Foreword Author

Jesha Villasis is a researcher and project manager at We Solve Foundation; professor, Department of Political Science, University of Santo Tomas, and policy consultant of the Sangguniang Bayan of Mariveles, Bataan.

About Kenneth Isaiah Ibasco Abante

Click this link to learn more about Kenneth, lead coordinator for Tarabangan Bicol.