As Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (International name: Trami) continues to wreak havoc across different parts of the Philippines, let’s hear the story of Rona Reina from the coastal community of Palapag, Northern Samar—a place rarely covered in the news during climate disasters.
“Almost a year ago, a shear line/LPA caused significant devastation in our province. This time, a tropical storm (Kristine) inundated most of the barangays along our rivers, with floodwaters reaching nearly 4 meters, while we hear our neighbors merely shrug, saying, ‘Ganito talaga e.‘ (That’s just how it is.)
“Living in rural areas close to the elements doesn’t mean we have to surrender to the hardships that befall us. The amount of rainfall we experience now has become more intense than it was years ago. The impacts of climate change are happening now.
“Curbing the use of fossil fuels is essential, but it shouldn’t end there. Wicked problems like these require holistic action. We need to adopt more regenerative ways of utilizing our land and with the government involving our communities in these plans. Taxes should be used to implement ecosystem-based adaptation strategies, and communities should not be afraid to get involved and hold our government—and big polluters—accountable.”
Let’s support Rona and communities like Palapag that continue to suffer from the impacts of climate change. Let’s call on the government to take action and hold oil, coal, and gas companies accountable for polluting our climate.
Together, let’s stand up for the future of our communities! 
#ClimateJusticeNow #MakeClimatePollutersPay
The climate crisis may seem hopeless, but now is the time for courage, not despair. Join Filipino communities taking bold action for our planet.
MAKE AN ACT OF COURAGE TODAY
