Filipino heroes

Manila experienced a great tragedy when Typhoon Ondoy took away more than 300 lives and more homes and properties. My heart goes out to the innocent children who drowned in the flood, the homeless families, and the people who watched as the flood submerged everything they own within a few hours.

I admire how people during these hard times join hands and help one another and extend help to others even if they themselves have very little. They were not necessarily politicians, senators, or rich businessmen. I saw students who volunteered to distribute relief goods. Blue-collared workers who volunteered to rescue trapped children from their flooded homes. Agents who live from paycheck to paycheck pledged a portion of their salary for the victims. Men who risked their own lives and safety to save their families, neighbors and even strangers. These are the true Filipino heroes. Simple laymen who have the strength to go out of their way to help their brothers in need even if there are no cameras rolling. During these trying times, I admire the Filipino's resilience, strength, and faith.

I thank the members of the management team and my agents who were trying to call me to check if my family and I are okay.

I thank my friends, Mike and LG who gave shirts for my brother who lost his car and entire home from the flood.

I admire and thank the supervisors who tried to reach their agents to make sure they are all okay.

I admire and thank the agents who pledged a portion of their salary to donate to the victims.

I thank the dedicated agents who braved the stormy weather to make it to work.

I thank the Convergys family for their genuine care and assistance.

I thank the members of the management team in Norwood and Makati for their prayers.

I thank God that no one from the CIS family were hurt.

As we rebuild our homes and our lives, let us think of how lucky we are to still be alive. Let us thank God for all the blessings that we still have. Let this trial bring us lessons and a renewed sense of hope.