In the heart of Cebu City, a community ravaged by nature's fury chose hope and togetherness for their Christmas celebration. Survivors of the flash floods unleashed by Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) on November 4, 2025, marked Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, with a simple yet profound gathering at the Bacayan gymnasium, which has served as their shelter since the disaster.
A Shelter Transformed by Spirit
The Bacayan gym in Barangay Bacayan, Cebu City, was more than just an evacuation center on this day. It became a vibrant testament to human resilience. For the residents of Sitio Common, whose homes were destroyed and loved ones lost in the November flash floods, the usual festive trappings were absent. Instead, the space echoed with the sound of karaoke versions of songs streamed from a shared smartphone, laughter, and the quiet comfort of shared company.
Celebrating What Truly Matters
Amidst the tents that now house multiple families, the day unfolded with modest activities that carried deep meaning. Children found joy playing with new toys, while families gathered to share whatever meals they could prepare. The focus was not on material abundance but on the fundamental blessings of safety and solidarity. They chose to celebrate what mattered most—being together, safe and hopeful.
This simple celebration, documented by Juan Carlo de Vela, highlighted what endures after a natural disaster strips away everything else. The scenes from the gym tell a powerful story of a community consciously choosing unity and forward-looking hope in the face of profound loss and displacement.
Looking Beyond the Disaster
The event in Bacayan serves as a poignant reminder of the long road to recovery for many Filipino communities after typhoons. While the immediate danger has passed, the need for sustained support and rehabilitation remains critical. The spirit displayed by the survivors of Sitio Common, however, offers a blueprint for resilience—finding light and connection even when circumstances are at their darkest.
