BATANGAS, Philippines – Apart from physical struggles, evacuees fight emotional and mental stress while the state of Taal Volcano remains unstable.
Authorities cannot confirm yet as to when the affected residents will remain in temporary shelters.
While some may still have a home to return to, most displaced residents may have to start from nothing considering the damage the volcano has caused in their properties.
During these times the victims must receive a stress debriefing.
Experts say such service is very important especially for children.
“Pwede iyon mag-develop ng anxiety disorder – hindi makakatulog, palaging nininerbyos, nagna-nightmares, ang hirap kaya niyan (They could develop anxiety disorder – difficulty sleeping, panic attacks, nightmares, such are very difficult conditions),” explained from Dela Salle University psychiatrist, Dr. Raineir Umali.
“The strong social support is very important because when you are connected with people, makakausap yung mga tao na magsasabi sa iyo (people open up to you and the would tell you) how they are able to cope or how they will be able to help you,” noted Dr. Shiela Viesca.
“The notion also that the government is there to assist that there are certain communities and groups who are willing to help (alleviates the pain of) any calamity or disaster,” she added.
Several volunteer groups offered free sessions for the affected residents.
Members of the Alitagtag Main College Department launched ‘Aklathanan’ at the Alitagtag Covered Court in Batangas.
One of the organizers, Nikko Pagsuyoin, posted a picture of when they gathered all the children and engaged them in a storytelling session and coloring activities.
Meanwhile, the 1st Batangas Provincial Mobile Force Company taught children how to dance at an evacuation center in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.
In another picture, volunteers engaged the evacuees into a Zumba session at Tejero Elementary School in General Trias, Cavite.
Several entertainment acts also performed like ventriloquist Arnold Allanigue who toured the evacuation centers in Alfonso Municipality in Cavite and in Bauan in Batangas.
Meanwhile, the Mozart’s Guild of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Batangas served to the delight of the victims temporarily housed in their campus. – MNP (with details from Harlene Delgado)
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