What the 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake Taught Me

Hello, friends! Kumusta? I hope everyone is doing well

As I passed by this school building, badly damaged by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck General Santos City on June 8, 2026, the memories came rushing back.

It was just before 8:00 a.m. when the ground suddenly began to shake. It was the strongest earthquake I have ever experienced. My sister and I managed to get out of our house because our gate was already open. We ran outside, and I noticed that only a few families in our subdivision had made it out. Others were trapped inside their homes, probably because they couldn't find the keys to their gates in the middle of the panic.
I still remember hearing my neighbor shout, "Mom, stay there! Don't run anymore, or you'll fall!" The shaking was so violent that it was difficult to stand. It felt as if the world was coming to an end. I watched cars, electric posts, houses, and buildings sway before my eyes. It was one of the most terrifying moments of my life.
When the shaking finally stopped, I thought everything was over. But as soon as I opened my phone to check on my loved ones, my screen was flooded with heartbreaking photos and videos—collapsed buildings, frightened students, and people running in panic. It was the first day of school, making the tragedy even more devastating.
Many buildings and homes were destroyed. Communities near the coast evacuated because of tsunami warnings. There were landslides, injuries, and lives lost. Even today, our city continues to experience tremors and aftershocks, reminding us that nature has not completely settled.
Looking back now, I realize something deeply humbling. No matter how advanced, intelligent, or successful humanity becomes, there are still things beyond our control—earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters. Life is unpredictable. In just a few seconds, everything we work so hard to build can disappear.
That experience changed my perspective on life. It taught me not to boast about wealth or achievements, because they are temporary. What truly matters is the life we have today, the people we love, and the kindness we choose to show others.
So today, I choose gratitude. Be thankful. Be humble. Be resilient. And no matter what life throws your way, never stop valuing each day as a precious gift.

Before I delete these photos from my gallery, I just want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our government for these free food packs and a sack of rice given as assistance to the communities.

During times of unexpected and unpredictable circumstances, we may not know what will happen next. But we just have to stay strong, be grateful for the help we receive, and keep moving forward. 🙏❤️

Thank you to everyone who extended their prayers,support and assistance during this difficult time. Every little help means so much.

Thanks for reading hivers!

pictures are mine edited in canva