It was my first time to volunteer in a relief operation. I’ve always wanted to volunteer but I just don’t know how to apply and go in their venues. Anyway, so when this typhoon Ondoy left a lot of mess, I looked for people who can come with me. I was so happy that my online friends also wanted to help so we decided to go. It was a very tiring experience but it was indeed all worth it. I opted to volunteer because I felt that I need to help in this kind of crisis. I don’t have thousands or millions of money to donate but what I only have is my free service.

We went there at around 10 am. When we arrived at Balay Expo, Cubao, there were already many people packing the goodies, folding the clothes, passing the packed relief goods, offering drinks, and etc. We were assigned to the rice area where we packed sacks of rice into plastic bags. At first, it wasn’t tiring. Although after a few hours, our hands were starting to numb. After packing the rice, we then transferred to another station.  I think that’s the time when we felt tiredness. I felt back and neck pain but I tried to ignore it because  I was really having fun.

At around 4:30 pm, the organizers asked those who came early to go home and rest to give way for the other volunteers who were waiting outside. The place was already jam packed and they wanted to give the other volunteers a chance to pack the relief goods. After the announcement, we went to Gateway to eat then  we separated ways and went home afterward.

I feel so proud of myself for what I have done. Haha! It’s just a small thing but I know it made a lot of difference. I wish to go back since classes are suspended until Saturday. I was actually happy to hear that news. It was a message that we could still volunteer in the next days. I hope more people would come. It would be fun… and most of all, fulfilling. =)