QUEZON, Philippines – On the side of the inundated road that connects Lopez, Quezon, to the Bicol Region is a woman selling hot coffee, noodles, bread, and cigarettes for truckers and stranded passengers.
Jasmin Gualdada, 50, was doing laundry at home while the rain from Severe Tropical Storm Kristine pounded down the southeastern side of Luzon on Thursday, October 24.
When she found out that Maharlika Highway was flooded that morning, she and her sister set up a table with the provisions. Throughout that Thursday afternoon, her hair was wet, her jacket drenched, but she wore a megawatt smile.
On Friday, October 25, the skies cleared but she came back. More truckers, passengers were trying to cross the highway. Relief supplies were slowly getting in.
From her seat, she observes the people that come and go. Some take respite in her makeshift stall. –Rappler.com
Videographer, video editor: Errol Almario
Producer: Iya Gozum
Associate producer: JC Gotinga
Graphic artists: David Castuciano, Raffy de Guzman
Supervising producer: Beth Frondoso