Almost a year ago since I last passed by this town (
story here), and I can say it is getting better. This time I was with colleagues on an 'ocular' of various aid/development actions at public places in the southern part of Samar. We rested at their plaza, so I took pics!
For those still not familiar, Balangiga is pronounced "ba-lang-hee-ga".
Viewed from inside the church... we can see that it's starting to have a roof...
That bright area by the altar is the remaining roofless portion, and work is in progress.
Viewed from outside, it seems nothing much has happened to this church, right?
That would be thanks to the quality materials that our forebears used in the past. Especially those bell towers, looks like they won't crumble to just any super typhoon!
The "Balangiga Encounter Monument", not affected, no roofs to blow for Yolanda!
This historical event has so many names, depending on who is speaking. For many years it has been called the "Balangiga Massacre" even on textbooks in the Philippines. Others call it the Battle of Balangiga, or the Balangiga Incident, or Balangiga Conflict. I'd like to call it Balangiga Uprising, but the town uses Balangiga Encounter, so let's use that too!
Jose Rizal is still fine up his perch (or whatever its called). Note: he faces the munisipyo..
as if saying:
ano na kamo dida? tuhaya niyo tuhaya, hu?! Hehehe, a constant reminder?!
Well that is the munisipyo. Just like the church it looks fine on the outside...
And just like many other municipal halls, they're repairing things and cleaning up too.
Did you notice the "banderitas"? Town fiesta is later in September. They're getting ready!
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