MARKER MULLED FOR ONDOY FLOOD VICTIMS IN QC

A marker at the foot of a life-saving Bita Tree in Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City may soon be constructed to remind the residents of the contributions of the unsung heroes, including a century old tree, during the devastation caused by typhoon Ondoy in 2009.

A proposed resolution, authored by Councilor Alfred Vargas, seeks the construction of a marker beside the life-saving Bita Tree in Bagong Silangan in observance of the 2nd year anniversary of the Ondoy tragedy.

According to Vargas, the marker will be the visible reminder of the Ondoy devastation that hit the country and caused the drowning of 68 Barangay Bagong Silangan residents on September 26, 2009.

The marker will be a tribute to the heroism of those who gave lives to save others, and a reminder that the silent witness to the tragedy, the Bita Tree, saved the many residents who managed to cling to its branches and foliage during the Ondoy floods, Vargas said.

Vargas added that during the typhoon devastation, the lone 50 feet Bita tree in the middle of Barangay Bagong Silangan, which is now called “Puno ng Buhay,” saved 7 families who clung to its branches as they waited for rescuers to come, hanging themselves for almost 24 hours.

According to Vargas, as Quezon City residents try to rebuild their lives and property two years after the tragedy, remembering their lost love ones and treasured property, it is important that should be a constant reminder not only of the painful incident that happened a couple of years ago but also of the inspiring experiences that took place during the typhoon Ondoy.

Vargas added that the marker will also remind the barangay residents to care for the protection of the environment so that future flashfloods can be prevented or minimized. Rico/ Maureen Quiñones, PAISO