Across the Distance, My Heart Remains with the Philippines.

Through connections, friendships, and the lives of people who have touched mine, the Philippines has grown to mean so much to me—the people, the culture, the language. Each interaction has left a mark, each conversation a lesson, and every word of Tagalog I learn feels like a thread linking me closer to a place that has shaped my heart in ways I cannot fully explain.

Hearing about the recent 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck central regions, coming just days after the devastating storm, hits me hard. The grief, loss, and upheaval families and communities are enduring—it’s impossible not to feel it, even from across an ocean. The overlap of these tragedies makes it feel heavier, like the weight of two storms upon the same shoulders.

If you feel moved to help, here are reputable organizations providing emergency relief and support:

Philippine Red Cross – Emergency aid, medical relief, and recovery support across the country.

GlobalGiving – Provides emergency supplies and long-term recovery assistance.

Caritas Manila – Coordinates disaster response and long-term recovery efforts.

Oxfam Pilipinas – Supports marginalized communities and climate resilience programs.

World Vision Philippines – Provides food, shelter, and child protection during emergencies.

Save the Children Philippines – Ensures children’s education, health, and protection in disaster-affected areas.

Even from an ocean away, I feel the weight of what has happened. My thoughts, prayers, and care go out to the people affected. I hope that in the midst of grief, hands find hands, hearts hold fast, and the sun rises again over the islands I love.

Across the Water

I feel your grief in every wave,
Your sorrow carried through the night.
Hands unseen reach to the brave,
And hearts across the sea unite.

Even in the rubble and rain,
Even when the world feels torn,
Love threads through the fear and pain,
A spark that will not be forlorn.