Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Romualdez (left), Jude Acidre (Facebook)

The Tacloban-based Tingog Party-list called on the nation to remember the bayanihan spirit Filipinos displayed in the wake of Super Typhoon "Yolanda’s" onslaught 10 years ago. 

“While Yolanda took thousands of lives and demolished entire communities, the Filipino spirit remained unbroken. In the face of unimaginable tragedy, we came together as one nation to support the survivors, donate relief goods, and assist in the recovery,” Tingog said in a statement on Wednesday, Nov. 8, on the 10th anniversary of the tragedy. 

“The incredible outpouring of aid from Filipinos near and far, as well as the international community, enabled the affected regions to gradually rebuild and heal,” the statement read. 

Born in the aftermath of Yolanda (international name Haiyan), Tingog committed to uplifting the lives of Filipinos affected by disasters. 

Over the past decade, the party-list championed disaster risk reduction programs, relief operations, and advocacy for climate resiliency. 

Tingog Party-list's two nominees in the House of Representatives are Reps. Yedda Romualdez and Jude Acidre. 

Acidre noted that while Yolanda tested the country, it did not break the Filipino spirit. “It revealed the true essence of our people, and it is a spirit that we carry with us into the future." 

The solon is hopeful that the lessons of the tragedy would be etched in the hearts and minds of not only Taclobanons, but of all Filipinos, "so we may emerge from difficult situations stronger and more united than ever". 

“The lessons of Yolanda remain as relevant as ever, serving as a guide as we navigate the trials of our present and future,” Acidre said. 

“The relevance of this commemoration to our time, ten years after Yolanda, cannot be overstated. We find ourselves once again facing an array of challenges, from natural disasters to public health crises and economic uncertainties,” he added. --Dexter Barro II