By Ricky J. Bautista
ELEVEN years after Super Typhoon Yolanda devastated central Philippines, members of the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP) Leyte Chapter, along with mainstream and campus journalists, gathered solemnly at Coca-Cola Junction in Tacloban City at 6 p.m. today, November 8, 2024, to honor their colleagues who perished that tragic day.
Under the soft glow of candlelight, the group prayed in remembrance of seven courageous reporters who lost their lives in the storm—among the more than 6,000 lives claimed by Yolanda.
As candles flickered in the evening breeze, journalists shared memories of the bravery shown by their colleagues, who, despite the overwhelming threat of the storm, continued reporting to deliver urgent updates and warnings to the public.
“They were dedicated to their duty until the very end,” NUJP Leyte Vice Chairperson Fred Padernos said, his voice heavy with emotion.
NUJP Leyte Chair Jasmin Bonifacio, with her voice trembling, recalled how these journalists worked tirelessly from their radio stations that morning, unaware of the unprecedented force that would soon catch them unprepared. She urged her colleagues to keep them in their prayers and to never forget their sacrifice.
NUJP Secretary General Len Olea, who flew in from Manila for the occasion, spoke of the enduring resilience of the Eastern Visayas media community.
In her message, Olea also took a moment to appeal for the release of Frenchie Mae Cumpio, a young journalist who, along with her colleagues, has been imprisoned for four years on charges Olea described as “trumped-up.”
“The media here has shown resilience time and again,” Olea said.
“As we remember our lost friends, let us also remember those who are unjustly kept from speaking out.”
Her words resonated deeply, a solemn reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by local journalists.
A young speaker from the University of the Philippines Tacloban took the opportunity to call on the government to take meaningful action against climate change, underscoring the responsibility to protect the environment—a cause all the more poignant in a place scarred by Yolanda’s wrath.
She also highlighted the continuing issue of mining in Homonhon, Guiuan, Eastern Samar, noting that forest destruction in the area stands as yet another example of environmental harm.
Adding his voice to the call for greater environmental accountability, Magik FM Manager Allan Amistoso criticized local politicians for disregarding environmental protections.
Amistoso cited the controversial causeway project in Tacloban, which persists despite an ordinance declaring the area a protected zone.
“Nature’s warnings went unheeded,” Amistoso noted. “We cannot ignore the cost of these actions.”
In addition to these speakers, representatives from Amnesty International and other student activists echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the need for a unified call for environmental justice.
As the program concluded, a band of artists performed two tribute songs, adding a final, heartfelt note to the evening.
Standing in silent unity, journalists and activists alike paid homage to the fallen, embracing both the memories of their lost colleagues and the urgent need for resilience and truth in times of hardship.
For those gathered tonight, this was not merely an evening of remembrance but a call to action, a reaffirmation of the unwavering spirit that defined their colleagues’ final hours. | The Samar Chronicle
