It has been an eventful few weeks. Needless to say one of the key events here in the Philippines was the destruction that typhoon Yolanda wreaked. Thankfully Manila was unaffected physically but emotionally Yolanda has left her scars. Of course the International Aid that was forthcoming will make a significant difference in terms of helping those affected as well as helping to rebuild the area. Many collection points and donation points have sprung up everywhere in Manila in order to help the typhoon victims. Local support can be seen almost everywhere.
Christmas comes early to the Philippines; on the 1st September Christmas festivities begin. What is heartwarming to witness is that many Filipinos have elected to either cancel or significantly scale down their Christmas work parties and donate the money to the Yolanda funds. The spirit of helping is definitely alive and well here.
This Sunday sees the celebrations for the students of AIM who have successfully navigated their way through their programs of study and are graduating with their well-earned degrees. It will be a proud moment for the students and their families. The celebrations will be appropriate and enjoyed by many. I wish the graduating students continued success.
Manila
