austraLasia #2550
Ondoy update: seminary reach-out
Sta. Cruz, Laguna FIN: 2nd December 2009 -- After months of
being struck by several super typhoons including Typhoon Ondoy, parts
of cities, towns and municipalities around the Laguna Lake (in Luzon)
have still remained underwater. This is so with Sta. Cruz, the capital
of the Province of Laguna. Relief goods continue to be distributed to
assist those who are still affected.
In solidarity, the aspirants and Salesians of Don
Bosco Seminary in Canlubang, 1.5 hours north of Sta. Cruz, assisted the
victims by organizing themselves to re-pack relief goods sent by some
Filipino communities from California (USA) and Milan (Italy) and
procured goods from financial donations from communities both local and
abroad channeled through the Salesian Commission on Youth Ministry.
The relief distribution was held at the Don Bosco
High School in Sta. Cruz. About 800 families were able to receive
relief. The aspirants helped by distributing goods and organizing the
big crowd waiting outside the compound. It was co-organized by the
Salesian Lay Volunteers Philippines through Ms. Regie Medalla and the
leaders of the Basic Ecclesial Communities of the parish in Sta. Cruz.
In the afternoon, the aspirants had an
immersion-tour (probably in all respects!) to the places that are still
under water. They rode fishermen's boats to view the affected
communities. They saw destroyed/submerged houses and bridges, hectares
of rice fields more or less three feet under water, collapsed fish
pens, pig and poultry cages, and submerged vegetable farms. Homes and
livelihood are still very much affecting the lives people.
One of the boatmen-fishermen said that the water is
expected to subside after December. He said, flooding happens every
year but this is the worst he has experienced so far that waters does
not subside immediately.
The experience was formative according to Fr. Rolo
Alcasid, Rector, in his homily that capped the whole day activity. The
importance of solidarity with the poor and the needy is one of the
important characteristics that an aspiring Salesian should develop.
Like Jesus, he went out of his way to be at the service of those who
are most in need at the outcast.
------------
Note:
Don Bosco High School – Sta. Cruz is on its last months under the
Salesians. It will be handed over to the diocese after the graduation
of the last batch on March. The 400 year old parish attached to it was
already handed back years ago. But still the lasting influence of the
Salesians will remain in the hearts of parents and alumni of Don Bosco
Sta. Cruz and the surrounding municipalities around the capital where
the spirit of Don Bosco continues.
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Title: australasia 2550
Subject and key words: EAO Provinces FIN Ondoy update
Date (year): 2009
ID: 2000-2099|2550
