December 3rd, 2012 Super Typhoon Bopha hit the Southern islands of the Philippines, with the most devastating impact hitting the Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and the Mindanao regions.
This picture shows the path in which the Typhoon Bopha traveled through the south up through the Philippines islands. The typhoon waxed and waned between class 2-5 in strength, reaching a class 5 typhoon when it first hit the islands.
The storm induced flash flooding, dangerously high winds, and fallen objects, all resulting in injury, mortality, and displacement. Over 600 people are confirmed dead, 700+ people are still missing, and thousands are out of homes.
With disaster relief and aid being provided for numerous people displaced out of homes, injured, or with lost family and friends... one piece of good news is PEACE and TRUCES have been made at this point between the government and rebel fighters in the Southern regions of the Philippines. Read the article below for more information regarding the peace truces:
http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/12/10/15810761-philippines-rebels-declare-truces-in-typhoon-devastated-areas?lite
The GSE District 5110 team is hopeful for everyone's safety and for adequate disaster relief and plans being formed for the people in these devastated regions. Despite this horrible natural disaster, we are very hopeful to be able to continue with our GSE travels to these southern regions as planned (Panay, Negros, Mindanao). Perhaps there will be opportunities for us to volunteer or provide some extra hands for those in need while we are there. :)
So, so terrible. Thank you for keeping us informed, Kendra. Following such a disaster, I agree that any opportunity to contribute the team's time and talents towards relief would go a long way to promote peace, goodwill, and the "service above self" value. Wishing you all a safe journey.
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