a spirit of volunteerism

The National Resource Operations Center in Manila coordinates the collection and distribution of food and supplies to typhoon affected areas. As we visited the Center and walked around we were overwhelmed by a very special energy.

We met with Elma, a technical officer, who described the dire situation on her home island of Bohol, Only last month an earthquake struck and now it is also dealing with the strong winds and storm surges of the typhoon. As we met, the office around us was extremely active, updating information boards, coordinating with their regional offices and instructing volunteers.

The strongest feeling was that of the spirit of volunteerism. Filipinos from all walks of life come to the Center each day to help. The military are there twenty-four hours. School and university students help in droves, with teachers replacing regular classes with lessons of another kind.  A few foreigners were there too, some taking time from their holidays and others coming to the Philippines specifically to help. Many local businesses display a sense of corporate responsibility in sending their employers to the Center to help instead of their regular duties. For them a deeper sense of duty takes precedent.

We helped for a short time, packing and carrying supplies. The Filipinos around us were extremely touched and appreciative. They were moved by the fact that a team cares enough to come so far to help. For us it is the same deep sense of duty that compels our presence here.