EDITORIAL - Recovery

A year after Super Typhoon Yolanda roared across Eastern Visayas, leaving thousands dead and missing and destroying billions in property and livelihood sources, there are many signs of recovery.

Yolanda has been described as the most powerful typhoon to make landfall in recorded history. In the first few days after the typhoon exited, government officials appeared dazed by the enormity of the destruction. The shock was evident in the initial response, which critics described as the second disaster to hit the typhoon areas. Fortunately for the victims, the international community stepped in, responding quickly with a massive outpouring of sympathy and solid assistance.

The government eventually recovered from its shock and began the arduous process of rebuilding, even as the recovery effort was marred by political bickering. The problem persists and is perceived to underpin President Aquino’s decision to skip worst-hit Tacloban City, turf of the opposition’s Romualdez clan, in commemoration rites for the anniversary.

The international community has committed to sustain assistance in the disaster zones. Sturdier shelters are being built and livelihoods are being restored. But the government, which approved the P167.9-billion master plan for reconstruction only a week ago, has found itself on the defensive for the pace of the recovery effort. Even under normal circumstances, construction in this country generally moves slowly. Whether building homes, offices, commercial establishments, public structures or utilities, securing clearances and permits alone can require a mountain of paperwork, with each signature calling for a fee. A disaster zone, however, is supposed to enjoy numerous exemptions from red tape. The priority is helping people rebuild their lives as quickly as possible.

Aid agencies, while noting progress in the rebuilding effort, have also observed that too many people are still housed in inadequate shelters. Concerns have been raised about the spread of prostitution and deepening poverty. More effort is needed to inject disaster resilience in the reconstruction.

Immediately after the super typhoon struck, the government had an excuse to act shell-shocked. One year later, with a lot of outside help still committed to the disaster zones, the government is expected to have improved its response.