By FREDDIE VELEZ
As Christmas approaches, families in the flood-stricken towns of Hagonoy and Calumpit remain submerged in waist-deep waters, clinging to hope that the holiday will bring not just joy but relief.
On Tuesday, November 11, residents waded through stagnant floodwaters that have lingered for months, the result of successive storms, high tides, and dam releases.
For many, the thought of celebrating Christmas under these conditions feels impossible.
They said that in just a few days—after 44 days—it will be Christmas, a holiday highly anticipated by the youth, especially young children, for whom Christmas is truly meant.
The Dela Cruz family in Pascual village said the effects of flooding pose significant problems for the pillars of the household. They said that for many years, they have tried various methods just to meet the needs of the whole family, especially the young children they care for.
Different measures are being prepared to ensure their safety from the dangers that flooding may bring.
Although they claim to be fed up with the constant flooding—day and night, whether it rains or not—they allegedly have no choice, as everything has already happened beyond their imagination.
According to the Dela Cruz family, they were greatly dismayed upon learning that the measures taken by the national government to alleviate flooding in their area have reportedly been corrupted by DPWH officials, greedy contractors, and politicians.
Concerned parents and elders in the town of Calumpit echoed the statements of the Dela Cruz family.
They said that, like them, they have suffered six months of flooding.
The Tolentino family said that since 11 p.m. on Monday, they have endured waist-deep floodwaters, likely due to the combined effects of dam water release, high tide, and rain.
Most residents are wearing jumper boots, and when they go out to buy something, the minimum fare for a boat ride is P50.
Tikling tricycle drivers are afraid to operate because the floodwater reaches the spark plug.
“Sawang-sawa na kami, sir. Six months na itong baha. Paano pa sa susunod na taon? Palala nang palala. Sana masolusyonan na. Ang pumping station naman, sir, hindi daw puwedeng simulan hangga’t may tubig. Hindi maikakabit ang pump kasi lubog pa,” the Tolentino family said.
Classes have once again been suspended, just a week after elementary students resumed school. Parents worry about the long-term impact on their children’s education and well-being.
