I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” – Psalm 91: 2
The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) is in solidarity with the Filipino people who are victims of the recent onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Internationally known as Trami), expressing unwavering support as our heart goes to those affected by the storm’s destructive force. It is deeply concerning and unfortunate that the country has been experiencing a series of extreme calamities, starting with the prolonged state of drought from El Niño earlier in the year, followed by a series of successive destructive typhoons and the unprecedented rainfall brought by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami) exacerbated by government-sanctioned environmentally harmful projects.
The impacts of these calamities could be significantly reduced or prevented if only adequate funds are allocated towards disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts. Thus, it is also high time to examine the supposedly flood control projects being bragged by the government to see if they are enough and working. It is worth noting that the Philippines has held the unfortunate distinction of being ranked as number one in the World Risk Index1‘s list, indicating the nation’s heightened vulnerability and challenges in coping with a wide range of disasters.
More perplexing still is the persistent approval and defense of the confidential and intelligence fund of the Office of the President and Vice President, which continues to thrive unchecked despite the glaring lack of transparency regarding the allocation and expenditure of public money. It is also disheartening and displeasing to witness politicians engaging in luxurious activities even amidst crisis, displaying insensitivity towards the plight of the people. Those in power must be held responsible and accountable for the exercise of their mandated authority in accordance with the welfare of the people.
These disastrous events serve as a costly and urgent reminder for all of us to reflect and take decisive action towards radical change. A change in our perspective and thinking that is based on understanding the cause of disaster as well as in our commitment to environmental stewardship, prioritizing the well-being of our people and communities.
Thus, the National Council of Churches once again would like to call on the lawmakers, politicians, and leadership of the land to prioritize the interests of the people rather than submit to the will of foreign interests and business profits that cause environmental destruction, such as in the case of large-scale mining, quarrying and land reclamation projects.
We urge the government to promptly address the urgent needs of the people by ensuring the rapid delivery of sufficient relief packages for each affected family in accordance with established humanitarian standards and principles.
As a Council of Churches, we also appeal to our member churches and constituents to continue praying for the country and lend a helping hand in any way possible to provide much-needed aid to those in distress. We acknowledge the commendable efforts of those churches that remain open and functional during calamities, offering sanctuary to the people. May the compassionate light of our faith be a beacon of hope and comfort for all.
Amen.
Signed:
30 October 2024
Ms. Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses
Vice-Chairperson
Pastor Jon Dave A. Angeles
Vice Chairperson
Rev. Leonardo R. Morada
Treasurer
Ms. Minnie Anne M. Calub
General Secretary
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[1] https://weltrisikobericht.de/worldriskreport/#iLightbox[efa5fa0bcb29544013c]/2