Opong victim in Masbate: We thought it was our last day

Survivors of Opong in Masbate narrated how they lived through the severe tropical storm's wrath, and the challenges facing them as they rebuild their lives.

"Akala ko last day na namin. Sobrang lakas (I thought it was our last day.  The storm was very strong)," said Frances Anonuevo, chairperson of Barangay Centro.

At least nine were reported dead while around 150,000 individuals were affected by Opong, according to a "24 Oras" report by JP Soriano.

Masbate has been placed under a state of calamity.

Siblings Ching and Errol Bantayan took cover from what was left of their house during Opong's battering after their roof collapsed when a tree fell on it.

"Malakas 'yung hangin, hindi namin alam kung saan kami pupunta.  Nabagsakan ng puno ang bahay.  Hindi naman alam kung paani kami mag-uumpisa (The wind was raging, we don't know where to go. A tree fell on the house.  We don't know how to begin)," said Ching.

"Pangulong Marcos, humihingi kami ng tulong sa 'yo (Pres. Marcos, we are asking your help)," Errol added.

The storm left a trail of destruction and thousands of people homeless.  Homes were flattened, trees were uprooted and electricity posts were toppled by Opong, which some residents felt was as strong as Typhoon Yolanda in 2011.

The GMA Kapuso Foundation immediately went to the province and distributed food packs and other essential items to some 2,000 families. —LDF, GMA Integrated News