On September 30, 2024, Typhoon Julian destroyed much of Batanes. It caused significant damage, not only to its mountains and beautiful scenery but also to the lives of its inhabitants. The destruction extended beyond homes; entire communities saw their livelihoods devastated as well. On October 7, 2024, the Emergency Response Team of ADRA Philippines had the chance to interview one of the survivors of the typhoon —a 57-year-old married man named Dominador Panican from Sitio Tukon, Brgy. Chanarrianan, Batanes. Originally from Samar, Leyte, he moved to Manila at the age of 18 to find a job due to financial difficulties. Later on, he moved to Batanes and got married. He currently works as an on-call mason in different parts of the province.
During the typhoon, his house was completely wiped out. He said that before he left his house to take refuge, he had tied it down to ensure it wouldn’t be blown away. But unfortunately, when he returned the next morning, his house was gone.
According to Mr. Dominador:
– Nung time na lumabas po ako sa bahay, hindi na po ako halos makatayo dahil sobrang lakas!
“When I left the house, I could barely stand because of the strong winds!”
– Pero nagpapasalamat pa rin kami sa Panginoon kasi hindi naman kami nasaktan. Yun nga lang, wala na po kaming bahay. Basa po lahat ng gamit namin, yung ibang gamit nawala kasi tinangay kasama yung bahay. Meron naman natira sa mga bubong at ibang parte ng bahay pero kakaunti nalang po. Yung kailangan po namin talaga at materyales para magpatayo ulit ng bahay. Kung meron man pong mabubuting loob na magbigay, eh magpapasalamat po kami.
“We are still thankful to God because we weren’t hurt. But we no longer have a home. All our belongings are wet, and some were lost along with the house. Some parts of the roof and the house remain, but only a few. What we really need are materials to rebuild the house. If there are any kind-hearted people who would like to help, we would be very grateful.”
Right now, Mr. Dominador is staying in a cramped and poorly constructed shelter right beside his damaged house. He remains hopeful about recovering from the typhoon, despite the challenges he faces.