Some victims of Typhoon Odette are already begging on passing vehicles on the roads of Surigao del Norte due to the alleged slow arrival of aid.
From Sison town to Surigao City, signs of typhoon victims asking for help can be seen on the side of the highway.
“Bahay ko nasira na tapos ako lang mag-isa. Wala na ako asawa,” said Berlita Baginaon, one of the typhoon victims.
Baginaon was lucky to survive after a coconut tree fell on the bathroom of their house where they hid their son and grandson during the height of the typhoon.
The beggars did not deny that they had received help from the government but said it was not enough because it is only good for 2 days.
But the victims need not only food but also roof and wood so that they can rebuild their houses.
“Hirap na kami ngayon. Ang tulugan namin tumutulo ang bahay namin, wala kami pera makabili ng yero. Maawa naman kayo sa amin,” said Diding Callano.
Resident Mary Ann Capua, on the other hand, wrapped her foot in plastic, which was covered in dust.
Victims of Typhoon Odette in Surigao del Norte already begging
Despite the condition, she is still on the street and patiently begging for even coins to buy home repairs.
“Malungkot kasi ang Pasko namin ngayon, kaya kami andito, para makabili kahit pangkain lang namin,” said Manilyn Resare.
Because many children are also blocking the road to beg, the Surigao del Norte Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) is concerned that they may have an accident.
According to Fe Saumat, head of PSWDO, they have already distributed aid and are directing relief goods from donors to local government units.
PSWDO has stopped begging on the road. They are already taking action against the police and barangay officials because they say it is dangerous on the streets.
According to the provincial disaster office, 21,148 houses were completely destroyed and can no longer be used due to the typhoon.
A total of 56,856 houses were slightly damaged.
The death toll has also reached 25 in the entire province while 25 more are missing in Del Carmen, Siargao Island.
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