Typhoon Odette victim, 73, shares worry after losing home, livelihood in Olango Islands: ‘Hindi ko alam paano babangon’

A 73-year-old man expressed worry for the future after he lost his home and source of living when Typhoon Odette swept Olango Islands in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

According to a “24 Oras” report, Wednesday, among those damaged was their marine sanctuary, which served as the residents’ main source of income.

One of those affected was 73-year-old Rubensio Labay, whose home didn’t withstand the typhoon.

“Parang nalugmok ako kasi hindi ko alam paano ako babangon mula dito. Wala na akong magagawa. Sa edad kong ito, mahirap na makakita ng magandang trabaho,” he said.

[I am devastated because I don’t know how I’ll get back up from this. I can’t do anything anymore. At my age, it’s hard to find a good job.]

Labay’s wish is for their area to recover from the devastation. He also hoped for additional aid because their community had received minimal assistance since the typhoon struck.

“Sana kung may dumating na tulong, mas mabuti,” he said.

[If help would come, that would be better.]

With the help of Howie Severino, GMA Kapuso Foundation brought relief goods to Labay and over 2,200 other residents on the island.

GMA Kapuso Foundation is accepting donations through bank deposits, Cebuana Lhuillier, Shopee, GCash, PayMaya, Zalora, Mega Mart, Globe Rewards, Metrobank credit card, and Lazada.

For more information, visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website. – Franchesca Viernes/RC, GMA News