WHY FLOODS KEEP GETTING WORSE IN THE PHILIPPINES

In the past few decades, the Philippines rarely experienced the kind of flooding we see today. Back then, when a typhoon hit, we would hear about strong winds, fallen trees, and power interruptions — but not massive floods submerging homes and vehicles. Fast forward to today, every time there’s a tropical storm or typhoon, we brace ourselves for one familiar headline: “Homes submerged in floodwaters.”  

So, what changed?  

One of the biggest reasons lies in urban development. In recent years, many subdivisions and housing projects have been built along riverbanks, low-lying areas, and flood-prone zones. Decades ago, these areas were left open as part of the natural drainage and floodplain system — meaning they were designed by nature to hold excess water during heavy rains. But today, they’re filled with concrete, houses, and roads that block the natural flow of water.  

What’s even more concerning is that developers market these properties as “prime locations”, offering high-end houses near rivers or scenic valleys, without disclosing the real risks. Buyers are drawn to the beauty of the view, not realizing that during the rainy season, these same areas can quickly turn into disaster zones.  

The truth is, nature hasn’t changed — but our land use and planning have. Rivers still overflow during storms, but the difference now is that there are entire neighborhoods sitting right where the floodwaters naturally go.  

Maybe it’s time for the government to rethink housing permits. Developers should not be allowed to build residential communities near riverbanks or floodplains. These zones should remain green spaces or be used for flood control and watershed management. If stricter regulations were enforced, we wouldn’t have to panic every time PAGASA issues a storm bulletin.  

Before, we didn’t need massive flood control projects — because the rivers had room to breathe. Now, as we keep shrinking that space with concrete walls and gated communities, we’re paying the price.  

The lesson is clear: we can’t fight nature, but we can live smarter alongside it.  

#Philippines #Flooding #UrbanDevelopment #EnvironmentalAwareness

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All those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who couldn’t hear the music.

This timeless quote, often attributed to Friedrich Nietzsche, reminds us of something deeply human — how passion, creativity, and purpose often make us look “different” in a world that doesn’t always understand.

When you’re chasing a dream, following an unconventional path, or expressing yourself freely, people may not always see the beauty in what you’re doing. To them, it might look odd, impractical, or even foolish. But to you — the one who hears the “music” — it feels like the most natural thing in the world.

In life, the “music” represents your inner calling: that invisible rhythm that guides your actions and inspires you to keep going even when others don’t get it. Whether it’s painting, creating content, dancing, writing, or starting something new — it’s your personal song. And when you move to it, you align with who you truly are.

Many great artists, innovators, and dreamers were once misunderstood. People laughed at their ideas, questioned their choices, or doubted their purpose. But because they stayed true to the music only they could hear, the world eventually danced along with them.

So the next time someone doesn’t understand your passion or questions why you’re “different,” remember this quote. Maybe they just can’t hear the music that moves your soul.

Keep dancing anyway — because someday, they might finally hear it too.

✨ #MotivationMonday #Inspiration #KeepDancing #PurposeDrivenLife

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