Tatay Dionisio Catchucha, 63 years old and a resident of Barangay Himbangan, was alone when Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) hit.

He had lived in Himbangan his whole life and he even described the community as being accustomed to typhoons due to the geographic nature of their area. However, he later found out that their experience and preparations were no match for the incessant rain and strong winds that toppled a hundred of his coconut trees from which he earned a living making copra.

“Nakakatakot! [It was frightening!]” he said. He explained that he feared leaving his house because of the upwelling of the river nearby. With all six of his grown children in Manila, no one would be able to help him if he got swept away by the flood. His only comfort amidst the storm was his prayer to God to give him courage. 

Thankfully, Tatay Dionisio’s house was left standing even with a damaged roof, but his farm had seen better days. With 117 trees before as his source of copra for coconut oil, it was hard enough with an average profit of only Php 5,000-10,000 every three months. Now, Odette had only spared him 17 trees to start over.

Despite it all, he sees hope and life beyond destruction— just as coconuts are known as the trees of life. 

“Hindi ko maaaring iwan ito dahil mahal na mahal ko itong lugar na ito… Magtatanim pa rin ako, hindi na para sa akin, kung hindi para sa aking mga anak na.” (I can’t leave this place because I love this community. I will replant coconuts, but not for me but for my children.) 

When asked about his message to all the affected individuals in their community, he said: “Magpalakas ng loob. Huwag tayong laging umasa, mag-hanapbuhay din. Kung may tutulong, mas mabuti at mas maganda para makakabangon ulit.” [Have courage. Don’t just rely on donations, we also have to work. If help will come, then it will be better so we can rebuild.]