No More Ondoy

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Last September 26, 2009, Philippines was devastated by a typhoon, flooding major part of Metro Manila and nearby cities and provinces. Many were caught by surprise because it is a flash flood and some area are not being flooded before and it is surprisingly big.

According to some expert due to global warming, the ice is melting and if it become worst this might submerged low lying areas in the world. I'm just wondering if the surprisingly big flood is caused by rising sea level. The worst hit by this flooding is Marikina, because it is situated near a river. Marikina river bank is 8 meters above sea level. According to some study, sea level may rise by 1 to 2 meters by 21st century. Though this will not entirely submerge Marikina but can you imagine how high will be the flooding by then. Will the flood also increase by 2 meters?

According to Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA) administrator Frisco Nilo this unusual level of rainfall was a sign of climate change. It's about time our government spends massive effort and money to deal with serious environmental problems like this. Assemble scientists and engineers to draw plans how we can adapt on this kind of calamity aside from of course the usual campaign of reforestation, logging ban, river excavating & cleaning, proper garbage disposal, etc.

And for the Filipinos, this should serve as wake up call; we should begun taking care of our environment. Let’s take advantage of the bayanihan spirit that becomes alive again due to this calamity. Let’s unite in stopping or at least limiting the use of plastic and other non biodegradable materials that is clogging our drainage, sewage and waterways. Let’s reduce our carbon emission and stop buying houses or property near the river and plant trees instead.

Environmental issue is as significant as public works, education, health and social welfare as far as annual budgeting is concerned. We should not underestimate or ignore the mood of nature now that it is already damaged due to man's abuse.

Political will and money could avert another Ondoy's deluge in the future.