Smiles and frowns tell the #storyofthenation

MANILA, Philippines – When Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) plowed through Eastern Visayas on November 8, 2013, fisherman Romeo Lanza lost almost everything he had, including three of his four boats. 

To add salt to his injury, the last boat he had was broken. 

Several months later, the survivors of Haiyan have yet to return to regain normality in their lives. The lack of proper housing and livelihood opportunities remain a problem, while the government’s rehabilitation plan has yet to take off. 

“The government gave us plywood, nails, and Epoxy sealant for repairing our boats. No wood. They promised us that they will give us fishing nets and a motor. They also told us we will be relocated. But I don’t think it will ever happen. I might be dead first before they give us a relocation site,” Lanza said. 

Eleanor Farmer of Oxfam Philippines submitted the Romeo Lanza’s story to Rappler. Oxfam is working with fishermen and others affected by Typhoon Haiyan to help them back on their feet.

Romeo’s story is just one of the millions of stories of Filipinos who, despite the odds, are surviving. 

Hopes and fears

Rappler asked Movers and the public to help shed light on these untold stories through our #StoryofTheNation campaign. 

We received all kinds of photos and stories, some sad and some inspiring. 

Here are their stories.

What do these photos tell us about the present state of the country? Let us know in the comments section below. – Raisa Serafica/Leanne Jazul/Stacy de Jesus/Rappler.com

Help illustrate the story of the nation! Send your photos and a brief caption to move.ph@rappler.com. Use #StoryofTheNation in the subject line of your email.

Editor’s note: Rappler cannot guarantee the accuracy or veracity of the photos and statements submitted by contributors.

Rappler would like to thank Humans of New York and Man on the Street Philippines for inspiring us in this campaign.