CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Survivors of Tropical Storm Sendong (Washi) gathered on Monday, December 16, in solemn remembrance, lighting candles to honor the dead and reflect on the devastation that struck in Cagayan de Oro 13 years ago.
Despite the passage of time, the memories of the hours between December 16 and 17, 2011, still hang heavily in the air.
“I still have recurring dreams that my two sons are still alive,” said Beverly Pastrano, 47, her voice betraying the weight of a grief that never truly fades.