Bacuit Bay in El Nido, Palawan
MY HEART IS BROKEN in the wake of the incredible devastation in my home country, the Philippines, caused by monstrous typhoon Haiyan. I’m deeply anguished every time I see the news coverage and photos of the devastation on TV, newspaper and the internet. I feel helpless witnessing it from afar, wishing that there’s something I can physically do to help and to ease the victims’ pain. For now all I can do is send financial help and prayers. One thing I’m extremely thankful for is that my family back home is okay.
I’m deeply moved by the overwhelming support that the Philippines is receiving from the international community. For those of you who have sent help and prayers, please know that we Filipinos are very thankful from the bottom of our hearts.
For those of you who still wish to help, please visit the link below for a list of organization where you can channel your contribution. Every little help will go a long, long way for my fellow Filipinos who were terribly affected by the calamity. Thank you.
How to help Typhoon Haiyan survivors
http://www.cnn.com/2013/11/09/
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By now, you’re probably too depressed seeing the heartbreaking images of the devastation every time the Philippines is on the news. Let me then uplift you (and myself as well) with some lovely images from my home country.
These photos were taken during a few days of island hopping in El Nido, Palawan the last time Keith and I visited the Philippines in 2011. This is my Philippines, the beautiful. I hope it will make you smile.
Bacuit Bay, El Nido, Palawan
The town of El Nido is the stepping stone to Bacuit Archipelago, which is dotted with breathtaking limestone islands with beautiful unspoiled beaches, colorful water with abundance of marine life, spectacular caves and amazing diving and snorkeling sites, etc.
Snorkeling near Pangalusian Island
Boats docked on Snake Island
Snake Island
Snake Island Beach
Cudugnon Island
Cave on Cudugnon Island
Snorkeling in Cathedral Cave on Pinasil Island
Inabuyatan Island
Layers of colors in Inabuyatan Beach
Kayaking in Big Lagoon
Entalula Island
Entalula Island Beach
Late Afternoon in Bacuit Bay
Mother and child enjoying the breeze in Bacuit Bay
Beautiful, cheeriful children of El Nido
View of El Nido from above
El Nido from above
El Nido from above
I know that the sun will shine again and the people in the Philippines will rise and heal from the calamity like they always do. With the support and kindness of the world, they will even have more strength to do so.
I hope that someday you can visit the Philippines to see its amazing beauty for yourself and to experience the warmth, kindness, hospitality and gratefulness of its beautiful, resilient people. As we say in the Philippines, MABUHAY!
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Note: El Nido, Palawan is located a It is about 420 kilometres (260 mi) southwest of Manila. Fortunately, it suffered minimal damage from typhoon Haiyan.
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Linking to Travel Photo Discovery, Sweet Shot Tuesday, Our World Tuesday and Travel Photo Thursday.
Thanks for the reminder. It is such a sad tme, but I keep thinking about how unfortunate it is that now so many people will associate this beautiful country only with disaster and misery. I’m glad your family is safe!
Cindy – thetravelgal recently posted..Photo Thursday: Memories of Fall in Chicago
HI Cindy, thank you. I also hope that people will remember Philippines for its beauty and not for all the tragedies that it had recently gone through.
Such a touching post, Marisol, what a beautiful country and I hope to visit some day. I am glad your family are safe and I am so glad the world has stepped up to help those suffering such devastating loss. Prayers and love.
Sarah recently posted..Finding home in Oaxaca City
Thank you very much, Sarah. I really hope you can visit the Philippines someday.
Lovely post, Marisol and your photos are stunning!
Patti recently posted..Map Us!
Thank you, Patti.
Marisol, thank you for this touching post and showing the beauty of our motherland. I know the feeling of helplessness and being broken hearted in seeing all the images. I was also from the Visayas region so this is even more painful. Beautiful images and I’ll be sure to get to El Nido when I get back.
Mary { The World Is A Book} recently posted..The Beauty and Serenity of the Byodo-in Temple in Oahu
Hi Mary, thanks. I feel this is the least I can do. I’m sure you can relate well to how I feel. Do you still have family in the Visayas? I hope they’re all okay. El Nido is a beautiful, definitely check it out when you visit.
What a beautiful and moving tribute to your homeland Marisol! My heart goes out to the victims and their families. Glad your family is safe. Take care.
Madhu recently posted..Weekly Photo Challenge – Layers
Thanks so much, Madhu, that’s so kind of you.
Your photos are beautiful, Marisol, and a lovely tribute to your homeland! I have difficulty watching the heartbreaking images that are being aired so I can only imagine how horrible it must be for someone who has family there.
Lisa Goodmurphy recently posted..Kingston, Ontario Highlights via Instagram
Thank Lisa. It was truly heartbreaking.
A poignant tribute, Marisol. My heart goes out to you. I’m glad your loved ones are safe. I know it must bring some comfort as you see the devastation of your incredibly beautiful country. Thanks for sharing your photos and reminding us that this, too, is the Philippines.
Sometimes, I wish we could do more than just give money. Let us know if you think of any other ways to help.
Marcia recently posted..Sometimes, It’s All in the Hands
Thank you Marcia. It’s truly is agreat relief knowing my family is safe but its still deeply heartbreaking knowing the huge amount of lives loss and a lot of victims are suffering. Thank you for your kind words and your thoughts.
Marisol recently posted..My Philippines, the Beautiful
You’re very welcome, Marisol. It really is heartbreaking. At times like these, I’m not sure which is worse – watching from a distance, imagining how it really is or being in the midst of the suffering.
I know these photos brought you great comfort. Wish there was something more I could do, though.
Marcia recently posted..The Animals That Caught My Eye
Aww Marcia, that some kind of you. Good thoughts from people you like bring great comfort. Thank ou.
Your photos are a beautiful tribute to the Philippines. I am glad that your family is fine, as are my cousins, aunts and uncles in Manila. It’s such a difficult time, and I’m glad you’ve provided a link for those wishing to assist.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} recently posted..Seeking The Statue of Liberty in Paris
Thank you, Michelle. This is the least I can do. I’m glad to hear that your family in the Philippines are okay.
It looks beautiful and I’m sure that the Philippines will rebound. I know everyone is thinking of these islands and hoping for recovery as soon as possible!
Sally recently posted..Language Misadventures: How I Adopted and Unadopted a Dog Before 8am
Hi Sally, thank you for your kind words and optimistic thoughts.
Marisol recently posted..My Philippines, the Beautiful
Wow thanks for sharing these photos. Such a beautiful place. So terribly sad to hear the news, I pray things will improve soon there.
Beyond my Front Door recently posted..Egypt: In the steps of Moses
Thanks Anwar, your prayers are deeply appreicated.
Beautiful scenic place. It is very much inviting.
Thanks you Rajesh.
Beautiful indeed…
Muza-chan recently posted..Japanese traditional architecture, a rare style building Wari-haiden
Thank you, Lili.
During our 2 months in the Philippines Tony & I fell absolutely head over heels for your homeland; reading the reports of the devastation that has befallen the country and its wonderful people has hurt us like it is our own home. To know the Philippines and its citizens is to love it. I know the country will survive with a smile on its face and a song in its heart but it is so hard to know what it is dealing with right now. Thank you for sharing photos of its beauty as well as giving us all ways that we can help.
Steph (@ 20 Years Hence) recently posted..Moreish Muar
Steph, thank you for your heartwarming words and support about the Philippines. You right that they will survive this with a smile and a song, but it’s sad to think what they’re dealing with right now.
I cna’t wait to hear about your Annapurna adventure!
Marisol recently posted..My Philippines, the Beautiful
I’ve made a donation to the International Medical Corps in your honor, Marisol, and I’ve shared this post on my facebook page! xxx
Sarah Somewhere recently posted..Finding home in Oaxaca City
Sarah, thank you very very much. I’m truly deeply touched.
Beautiful, beautiful pictures, Marisol! My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to the Philippines and to all of the people who’ve been adversely affected by the storm. I’m so glad to know that your family is doing well, but it’s still so tragic for those who’ve lost their lives, their loved ones, and their homes. I know that the Philippines will bounce back though. Thanks for sharing the donations link.
Dana Carmel @ Time Travel Plans recently posted..Drifting Past 365 Isletas on Lake Nicaragua
Hi Dana, your thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated.
Yes!!!!
We shall rise again!
Thanks for this very positive and hopeful post.
Photo Cache recently posted..Back to New Orleans Part 2
Yes, we will!!!
You’re welcome, this is the least I can do for our country and kababayan! Mabuhay tayo!
So beautiful! Thanks for sharing the beauty.
Cynthia recently posted..Today’s Walk — A Study in Brown
My pleasure Cynthia.
What wonderful sentiments and images…..yes Filipinos are resilient despite these devastating images – I hope help is constant and ongoing…I would to visit El Nido some day, its stunning!
noel recently posted..Nijo Castle in Kyoto, Travel Photo Mondays #21
Hi Noel, thank you. I really hope you can visit El Nido someday. You and your camera will love it there.
Yes, you have a beautiful country, and thank you for showing so much of the water side.What a relief that your family is safe. It will take time and effort to regain the losses.
Jesh StG recently posted..BEACH WALK
Thank you, Jesh. There’s still so much beauty to show.
I know it will take time to regain losses but I know that the people’s spirit will rebound even before they can rebuilt.
Such beautiful shots! The devastation is heart-breaking…
Thank you Fiona.
These are stunning and a great reminder of what a beautiful place the Philippines is, thank you for sharing
Mollyxxx
Molly recently posted..Day 323 – Opotamus
My pleasure, Molly. Glad you found it beautiful.
An excellent post. it is good to be reminded of the beauty of the Islands.
Thank you! I’m glad you appreacite its beuaty.
I have no doubt in my heart, Philippines will emerge from this typhoon stronger and better.
Okay … Philippines is beautiful !!! Why is it not as famous as other Asian destinations such as Thailand, china etc?
More of My Philippines the beautiful please …
Rachel M recently posted..Petrified Forest in Sibiloi National Park
Thanks for your positve words, Rachel.
So lovely to see your beautiful photos of the Phillipines. I am pleased you feel the overwhelming support from the International community, and know that one day when your Country is on the road to recovery, that your photos will inspire us to visit your wonderful country.
Take care
Wren
Hi Wren, thanks for the kind words. I really hope that you get to visit my country someday.
Such a beautiful country! The loss of lives can never be replaced but I hope the survivors heal and recover quickly.
Ramona recently posted..Changes
Hi Ramona, thanks for your good wishes.
It’s been very disturbing news of course, Marisol. I’ll pass this post on where I can, for this reason, and also for your beautiful photo series.
Andrew Graeme Gould recently posted..Election day, Santiago, Chile
Thanks Andrew. Really appreciate your support.
Your pictures are overwhelmingly beautiful. How I would love to be there, too!
Katrin recently posted..Travel log: Markdorf/ Swabian Mountains
Hi Katrin, thank you. I hope you can get there someday.
Lovely photos of our country, Marisol. Too bad we always get hit by natural disasters
Aleah | SolitaryWanderer.com recently posted..Beyond the Tragedy: Bohol Revisited
Hi Aleah, thanks. I know, but we seem to have a good knack for dealing with it and moving on.
Beautiful photos, so terrible disasters are, they also represent a new beginning and the people will rebuild their country.
Thanks Christian. I appreciate your positive thought.
A beautiful tribute. My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of the Philippines. Beautiful photos and post, thanks for sharing.
Thanks Eileen. Your thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated.
Firstly, Great post! All the landscapes shots are amazing, love the beaches..
thanks for sharing your experience..such you are a great travelogues..
HI Swati, thanks for visiting and I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Oh Marisol I’m so so sad too. What devastation. What suffering. Your photos brought back all the wonderful and beautiful things about The Philippines though and having lived there for nearly 4 years I love the country too. Your pictures brought back lots of good memories and a happy time in our lives too. Yes we have donated. And a very wonderful friend runs an organisation that is helping out (and helps the youth too) called The Springboard Foundation.
Johanna recently posted..Top beaches in south west Australia and Eagle Bay Brewing Co.
Hi Jo, I’m so glad we were able to bring back good memories of your times in the Philippines. Thank you for sending your help. I just looked up your friend’s foundation and it looks like they’re doing an amazing job for the country.
I have heard about this tragedy, Marisol, and my heart goes out to you and to the Filipino families who were affected.
Freya Renders recently posted..In the Spotlight: Lake Powell National Park
Thanks for thought, Freya.
Your photos are beautiful, a stark contrast to the devastation that we now see on the news. What a relief it must be to you to know that your family is okay. My heart goes out to the Filipino community. Thank you for sharing and letting us know how we can help ease even a small bit of suffering in the Phillipines.
Tonya {The Traveling Praters} recently posted..Visiting the Oklahoma City National Memorial in Pictures
Tonya, thank you so much for your very kind words and thoughts.
Thank you for this, and all the beautiful photos. So sad, my heart goes out to all the people affected.
EverywhereAmy recently posted..Photo Adventure – Eagle Mountain Park, Texas
My pleasure Amy and thanks for the good thoughts.
I have met so many Filipino people in Canada over the years and the one characteristic I would use to describe Filipinos is gentle. My heart goes out to you and your country. I am so happy for you that at least your family is safe. It will take so much time and energy to rebuild but it will happen and some good things will come out of this horrible devastation.
Your photos are outstanding and are a reminder of what a beautiful country you come from.
Leigh recently posted..A Hike to Nigel Pass in Jasper National Park
Leigh, thank you so much for the kind words and for believing that something good will come out of it. Glad you enjoyed the photos. It truly is a beautiful country and I’m very proud of it.
Wow! It really is stunning. It’s heartbreaking what happened there and I hope that people remember that tourism helps local economies recover from something like this. Your photos sure will help convince people to continue to go there.
Arianwen recently posted..How to Stay Safe While Backpacking
Thank you Arianwen, I sure hope so.
It really is amazingly beautiful! I hope I get to see it for myself someday.
Jess, thank you and I really hope you make it there someday.
I’m so glad that your family is safe, Marisol. Almost unbelievable the extent of the devastation, but encouraging that there has been such a outpouring of support from the world community. Your Philippines is beautiful and I love your photos (personal favorite –Bacuit Bay, El Nido, Palawan).
Marisol your photos of Palawan are STUNNING! I hope to make it there very soon in the new year to come! I was totally disconnected from the world when the devastating typhoon hit the Philippines, and as soon as I found out, I sat in front of my laptop in South Africa reading every article, photos, and videos I came across. It truly broke my heart seeing and reading everything. The politics and the corrupt government makes me even angrier just thinking and talking about it!
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