Surge Visits the Philippines: Tacloban, the Site of Super Typhoon Haiyan

Written by Surge volunteer Phil McCarter. Read his first two updates from the Philippines here and here.

Our final, and longest stop in the Philippines was in Tacloban; a small city in the central province of Visayas. As you may know, this was one of the cities that were battered by Super Typhoon Haiyan (or Yolanda, as it is referred to locally) back in late 2013, suffering immense, widespread damage and loss of life. I am sad to report that unfortunately the place was not in good shape when we arrived a little less than 15 months later.  We landed at a small airport, comprised of a short runway and a small building containing just one baggage belt and a couple of counters.

During our taxi ride from the airport, we could see the immense destruction from the Super Typhoon still apparent. About seven in ten buildings looked dilapidated or damaged and although it had more of an urban feel about it, the place looked no more affluent or developed than the poor villages we had just visited in Mindanao.  It was clearly still reeling heavily from the destruction caused by Haiyan. Despite all of the international aid efforts since the event, it still felt like this was the place we would be needed most. We finally arrived at Z-Pad, the place we would call home for the next 5 nights.

Wash Training
Wash Training

The next day, we set off to meet our final prospective Philippine partner, Volunteers for the Visayans (VFV); a non-profit NGO that designs and implements social welfare and development projects that serve underprivileged local communities.  We visited their office, which was located in the heart of a rundown, yet typical residential area, to meet their employees and learn about what they do. They cover a wide range of development areas, from distributing school supplies to some of the area’s most remote and underfunded schools (a few of which we would be visiting!) and sponsoring the construction of new school buildings, to community feeding programs and tutoring services. Over the course of the next few days, Princess, a kind VFV representative, escorted us far and wide to various schools in the surrounding rural communities. These schools were so difficult to access that traveling to one of them usually entailed a combination of several of the most common Philippine modes of transport. Jeepneys (a very elongated jeep with an open back able to fit about 25-30 people) would take us the bulk of the way on the main roads, and then tricycles (a motorbike with a large passenger kart attached) or pedicabs (a bicycle with a small passenger kart attached) would take us a little further, down the smaller rural roads. Finally, when the village roads were in too poor of a condition, regular motorbikes and my personal favourite, the On a Hubble Hubblehubble-hubble (an extra long, extended motorbike that can fit up to 5 people) would take us the final leg and drop us at the door of the school! A lot of trust was invested into the hubble-hubble drivers as we hurtled down bumpy, muddy, narrow roads, dodging potholes and the occasional person as we went by.

The schools in these villages were the worst I had ever seen. Some of them barely had a functioning latrine and others drew their water from open wells that looked to almost surely be contaminated.  VFV had initiated some programs with these schools, either in the form of providing school supplies or Sawyer water filters for the students and staff to use to purify their drinking water. From Surge’s perspective, our aim was to partner with VFV to implement water and sanitation projects that it was clear these villages so desperately needed.  And whilst there, scoping out the villages’ current sanitation situations, we of course delivered our special WASH training at each village’s elementary school.

Phil helping kids w/ water drops
Phil helping kids w/ water drops

The children in these schools were extremely happy to see us and displayed the same level of passion as all the others had before them. Each time, it was incredible to see the faces of the kids light up as we introduced and played each of the fun, interactive games in the program. Just the virtue of us being there seemed to have a huge impact, simply because they recognise that we care.  Interestingly, they speak a different dialect in Visayas than they do in Davao, and little did we know that many of the WASH-specific words we had put a lot of effort into learning in Tagalog were no longer applicable! The students and teachers were too kind to point this out, of course, so we ended up making a bit of a fool of ourselves since Princess, our designated translator, was accompanying Shilpa in her classes with the younger children! At the end of each session throughout the trip, we distributed a paper water drop (which we spent a good few of our nights cutting out!) to each child for them to write or draw something that they learned from the class. At the end, the teacher would then collect all of the drops from the students and promise to create some sort of collective display of the drops on the classroom wall in the following days (some of the teachers actually sent us pictures of these after they had been created, which was a pleasant surprise!). There were clearly some very talented students in these classes and it is extremely saddening to think that many of them will not be able to pursue an education beyond an elementary level, and almost certainly not beyond high school.

School Boy Carrying Water for Family
School Boy Carrying Water for Family

In one of the villages, we were scoping out the village well and collecting water to be used in the hand washing demonstration section of the WASH training, when a schoolboy no older than 9 or 10 came by with a large hand-held container. To all of our surprise, he filled it right up to capacity and prepared to walk back down the street in the same direction as us. The container looked to be about 15 litres, and when full probably weighed about half of what he did.

I asked if I could help him carry it; I wanted to know how heavy it felt to have to carry that quantity of water the fair distance he was about to carry it, since this is probably what he has to do on a daily basis. I picked it up after the boy seemed to reluctantly agree to let me carry it (he is probably so used to it that he may have been wondering why on earth I was insisting on carrying it for him, or perhaps he thought I was going to steal it!). After not much more than a minute or so, I already started to feel the effects of the weight, particularly in my shoulders. I can only imagine how the young boy, significantly smaller than I, copes with such a task. Nevertheless, after a couple of minutes he insisted on taking over!. This sort of thing, while pervasive in developing countries, is upsetting to see, as it shows just how much of a part of life water fetching has become for the child. No child should have to miss school to spend time collecting something that is a basic human right.

The Philippines was an extraordinary journey where I experienced much more than I ever could have imagined in a span of just 12 days.  We fit so much into that time, met so many kind, genuine people and organisations, learned so much about the riveting history and culture of the country and managed to visit all three of its provinces. The only thing I won’t be going back for in too much of a hurry is the food! (Side note, if you refrain from consuming animal products, as I do, this is certainly not the easiest of countries to get by in! The food selection does not extend far beyond the staples of meat and rice in most Pinoy restaurants, so prepare for lots of fruit, rice and eggplant adobo!)

Phil McCarter is a member of Surge for Water’s volunteer team in Dubai, where he grew up. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from McGill University. He says of his reason for working with Surge, “I have always wanted to give back to those much less fortunate, whom I differ from only because I had the luck to have been born into a more privileged life, and nothing more. With Surge, I finally had that chance.”

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Lorraine Alva

Lorraine Alva

Director, UAE

Lorraine Alva

I’m passionate about Surge’s mission to provide clean water to those most in need. It’s touching to hear the experiences of our team who’ve witnessed and contributed first-hand solutions to the communities Surge works in. As the mother of Surge’s founder, it is extra-special to see my daughter’s vision and hard work come to life and make a difference in so many lives. I’m also happy to apply my strong organizational and administration skills from my 35-year career in the oil industry towards Surge.

Laila Al Yousuf

Laila Al-Yousuf

Director, UAE
Design Director at Say Studio

Laila Al-Yousuf

I want my life to be about the positive impact that I make on other people’s lives. I’m blessed and I’m compelled to use my blessings to help other people; this is why I’m a part of Surge. Traveling to Uganda with Surge changed my life. Every day, I see the faces of the beautiful people we met, and it gives me the drive to do what I can for them. As a professional interior designer, it was an honor to use my talents to create and help launch Surge’s annual UAE gala and design competition: Design, Dine, Make a Difference. It’s been a surreal experience to see the interior design industry come together to support our cause, and thus change the lives of communities around the world.

Jennie Stallings

Jennie Stallings

Director, UAE
Partner/Commercial Manager at ChelseaGREEN

Jennie Stallings

With over 25 years’ experience across the US, Middle East, and Africa as an Ergonomic Specialist, Wellness Consultant, Trainer, Interior Designer, and self-proclaimed furniture guru, Jennie has been driven to help create spaces where people can thrive.

Jennie stumbled across Surge after attending the second annual gala, Design, Dine, make a Difference, and has been involved ever since. Whether she is in a ball gown in Dubai or a Surge t-shirt, she passionately supports Surge in any way her skills can allow her to be of service.

Trisha Bhagat

Trisha Bhagat

Treasurer, USA
Associate Director, Business Compliance at Abbvie

Trisha Bhagat

I love that Surge is committed to helping our global communities be healthier and happier. I resonate deeply with Surge’s sustainable approach that allows communities to stand on their own and flourish. I feel very fortunate that I get to volunteer with some amazing passionate people; it makes me feel like I’m part of a global family. Professionally, I work in audit and compliance, and I enjoy applying these analytical skills, as well as my creative side, towards growing Surge.

Scott Minger

Scott Minger

Development Chair, USA
Chief Development Officer at Vitamin Angels

Scott Minger

I believe access to clean water is a human right. I love how Surge provides sustainable solutions to communities with the goal of ending the cycle of poverty. I am passionate about leveraging my 20 years in the retail industry and nonprofit management experience to help provide access to clean water to those in need.

Sarah Lynch

Sarah Odde Lynch

Marketing & Communications Director, USA
Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BevSource

Sarah Odde Lynch

I love devoting my time as a marketing professional to an organization that cares about providing for children and families’ basic needs — and creating a better future. It’s been exciting to see Surge grow through the years, starting as an idea and now becoming a major force in the water and sanitation space. Outside of Surge, I’ve been in corporate marketing for more than 15 years, working on dynamic food and beverage brands such as Land O’Lakes®, Baileys®, Ketel One®, and most recently V&V Supremo Chihuahua® Cheese.

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Josh DeBartolo

Governing Board, USA
Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Purview

Josh DeBartolo

Josh is a dynamic professional with a diverse background in finance, non-profits, and social businesses. With a passion for sustainable development, Josh takes a “listen first” approach and has spearheaded community-based disaster response efforts as well as initiatives designed to assist individuals combating rural and urban poverty both domestically and abroad. He currently serves as COO of a healthcare technology company, overseeing operations and implementing innovative solutions to improve health equity and access to expert care.

Channa North Hoffstaed

Channa North-Hoffstaed

Board Chair, USA
VP Professional Services NA at Kinaxis

Channa North-Hoffstaed

I volunteer for Surge because of the commitment to provide sustainable and community-driven solutions to help end the cycle of poverty. There is a humility in partnering with communities that is truly transformative and long-lasting. Visiting Haiti and working directly with Surge’s field partners has so far been my most compelling experience with the organization. For me, seeing the strong community relationships reinforced the uniqueness of Surge’s approach to locally-led development. Through my professional consulting experience, I’ve provided strategic direction to several leading corporations. I really enjoy offering this service to Surge and simultaneously turning it into tactical execution. In my free time, you’ll likely find me training for my next marathon.

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Chris Beukenkamp

Governing Board, USA
Senior Director, Technology and AI Strategy at Salesforce

Chris Beukenkamp

Chris has spent over 25 years in software and IT working across the globe. He has lived in London, Canada, China and Taipei while managing teams and traveling with family all over APAC. Currently, he advises some of the world’s biggest retailers as a Distinguished Enterprise Architect at Salesforce. His family mantra and giving focus is “God, Kids and Animals” and is very excited to join the board at Surge and bring his expertise to help bring clean water and sanitation to children around the world.

Anna Paul

Anna Paul

Operations Director, USA
Director of Administration for the Village of Barrington Hills

Anna Paul

We’re so lucky to not have to think about the safety of our water. No one should have their future limited by access to safe water and sanitation. I dedicate my time to this cause because of the inspiring way Surge integrates with communities and becomes a part of them to solve this global issue. I know we are making a sustainable difference. Professionally, I’m an administrator and an organizer, and I apply these skills to to my work with Surge — where I get things working better and more efficiently. In my free time, you’ll find me at a fencing tournament.

Florence Ringe

Florence Ringe

Executive Director, POPOW, Uganda

Florence Ringe

I’ve ended up where I am because I have the passion and will to help the poor, needy, vulnerable, voiceless and invisible people especially women, children and the youth. My personal mission is to empower women, youth, orphans and vulnerable children to realize their full potentials for sustainable livelihoods. Surge is a Great, Reliable, Flexible and passionate partner. Before Surge, much of POPOW’s ideas remained in the book with no funds or additional ideas to bring them to reality. We were like a bird without wings to fly. We are so grateful and appreciative of Surge’s immense, invaluable support. Together, we’ve transformed and changed lives.

Dr. Pierre Erol Rene

Dr. Pierre Erol Rene

Director, ASSHLA, Haiti

Dr. Pierre Erol Rene

I’m a Doctor that cares about helping the most disadvantaged people improve their living conditions and live with dignity. I built an organization with friends to do this in Haiti in service of better drinking water, health, employment and housing. With a global vision to live in a world of solidarity, I looks forward to continued work with Surge and other partners to deliver on economic self-sufficiency. My partnership with Surge for Water has already helped me a lot in my mission.

Ashley Quinlan

Ashley Quinlan

Operations & Development Manager

Ashley Quinlan

Ashley is Operations and Development Manager at Surge for Water, and has been with the organization since 2015. With a degree in environmental science, she’s passionate about supporting solutions that serve both people and the planet, and Surge’s mission fulfills this. Her daily role involves working with Surge’s field partners to support their work and success. When she’s not working on helping to solve the global water crisis, you can find her engrossed in the local culture of wherever she currently calls home or reading a book.

Marita Peters

Marita Peters

Executive Director, UAE

Marita Peters

Surge’s mission to uplift and empower those most in need through life-giving water resonates deeply with me. My deepest desire is to do as much as I can for humanity, and Surge enables me to do so. Visiting Surge’s field partners and working, dancing and singing with the community is what I love the most. My passion for the cause gave me the courage to leave the corporate path and instead be a voice for our planet and its people. My diverse experiences in finance, human resources, sales, and parenting are all skills I use every day in running Surge’s UAE chapter.

Shilpa Alva

Shilpa Alva

Founder, Executive Director, Board Member

Shilpa Alva

I started Surge in response to a deep calling to give back to people who were less fortunate than me, and to be an active part of addressing poverty, injustice, and inequality in our world. Through Surge’s mission and model, I found an unanswered need and a way to fulfill my calling. Surge is one of my life’s biggest loves — it’s truly an extension of my mind, heart, and soul. It’s been so fulfilling and motivating being a part of Surge’s story and its global family, who are all connected by love and a desire to make our world a better place. My professional and educational experiences in engineering, public policy, supply chain, and management consulting are effectively put to use in running the organization.

See our founder, Shilpa Alva at TEDx