A candle for each victim of the Sichuan Earthquake China
I know in our country we already have a lot of problems to take care of. Like the recent Typhoon Cosme which ravaged Zambales and left a few people dead, the rising prices and even worse, politics. I seldom read or watch the news so I’m not really updated on political situations but in environmental and calamity news, I make sure to pay attention. When I learned about the Cyclone that hit Burma (didn’t even know Cyclones exist here in south east Asia) I was devastated by the news. And I was more surprised recently on what happened to Sichuan China lately. That 7.9 earthquake which hit south-west China left more than 3000 people dead. For this I offer my deepest condolences to the families, victims and the Chinese government.
Aisle of Flowers at Dujiangyan, Sichuan
Honestly, if I hadn’t been there a few months ago, I wouldn’t be too concerned about what happened. It was just a few months ago when I was walking at the streets of Chengdu and Dujiangyan and now seeing those video clips from CNN and the news was really hard to muster. I actually told myself when I was there that I could practically love that city and can live there for a time. I somehow empathize with the people there and hope the pass through these trying times.
Wenshu temple Wall Lantern in Chengdu
After 8 days since the earthquake tragedy, 34000+ dead found and more than 250000 people hurt, China still cries for hope and strength. Today is also the start of their mourning. It’s a pity I could do nothing physically from where I am to help those in need there in China, likewise for the cyclone victims in Myanmar. What I can only do now is to immortalize the good memories and images of those places a few months before this tragedy happened. I am also hoping that China’s heritage wasn’t damaged as well. This is a sad thing indeed. Something that even our country should be prepared for. Our planet is changing, I hope we are ready enough to face those changes.
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
