Typhoon Ondoy

(linked from The Big Picture/article: Typhoon Ketsana; Noel Celis/AFP/Getty Images)I would like to shed light on an issue that, for me, literally hits close to home. As most of you have already heard, the Philippines was recently hit by a devastating typhoon known as Ondoy (Ketsana) on the 26th of September. Since its arrival, Ondoy has brought on an estimated 17 inches of rainfall over 24 hours, which spawned massive floods throughout Manila and its surrounding region, driving people out of their homes and sadly contributing to the rising amount of casualties. Though Ondoy has run its course in the Philippines, the damage it left behind has created a lasting impression on its people and the country as a whole.

One photo blog, in particular, called The Big Picture (affiliated with The Boston Globe) has captured the resulting destruction of Typhoon Ondoy through a series of profound photographs collected from various photographers and sources. My heart felt so heavy while browsing through them. The link is provided below.
WARNING: Please be advised that some images featured in this article are graphic.
LINK | The Big Picture: Typhoon Ketsana (Ondoy)

Personal note: I was born in Tondo, Manila and have family still living there and in Bulacan. Thankfully, my family here has gotten word that our extended families are fine. Still, there are countless families and individuals who could use your help and support. Ondoy continues to be in action, now in Vietnam and Cambodia, where it has been reported to have already caused deadly landslides. Please continue to pray for those coping with the aftermath of the storm and those that continue to be affected. Refer to following link below from Google on ways to help the victims of Typhoon Ondoy.
LINK | Google: Help for Typhoon Ondoy Victims in the Philippines