Below is a first-person account of one of the soldiers taking part in the IDF’s rescue delegation to the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan.
For live updates on the rescue mission click here
Our journey to the Philippines began as we found ourselves in the Ben Gurion International Airport, awaiting for instructions and prepared to board a plane with more than 100 tons of equipment. We were a diverse group – 148 officers and soldiers, doctors, nurses, lab technicians, psychiatrists, social psychologists, search and rescue workers, etc.
IDF delegation for the Philippines at Ben Gurion Airport
After 12 long hours crossing the universe, we arrived in Cebu. As we stepped off the plane, we quickly came to understand one of the serious challenges we would be facing in the Philippines – unprecedented heat. We landed in an airstrip and were surrounded by hundreds of boxes of foreign aid. We were immediately welcomed by dozens of the local residents, excited to greet us in our first moments in the Philippines. We boarded buses for a 4-hour drive north to Bogo City, a city deeply impacted by Typhoon Haiyan.
Flags standing side by side
Despite our exhaustion, we couldn’t help but be enthralled by the beauty of the countryside. We reached Bogo City on Thursday night and spent our first night in the local sports complex as we experienced our first rain in the Philippines through the open sky under which we slept (the roof of the complex was destroyed in the typhoon). There was a clear feeling of excitement – the desire to get to work as soon as possible. Members of the delegation spent the evening playing guitars and singing, already building strong bonds.
Our first full day started early and we immediately began to unload all of the medical supplies that had arrived. The amount was staggering – wheelchairs, ultrasounds, diapers, medication and even refrigerators. The atmosphere continued to grow with pride and excitement, especially when the flags were raised. The pediatrics section was decorated with toys and, almost instantly, local residents began standing in line waiting for medical assistance.
Soldier decorating pediatrics section of field hospital
The day was filled with major milestones – admitting the first patient, as well as the birth of the first baby, aptly named “Israel.” Lt. Col. Dr. Ofer Merin, the medical manager of the hospital, kept mentioning the importance of what we were doing, stating “we are here to answer the call for help.” I had the privilege of being in the delivery room minutes after Israel was born and what was felt in that room was truly the essence of hope – the feeling that after such a horrific experience, life, and especially new life, continues.
IDF doctors with newborn baby “Israel”
On the second morning, we were greeted by roughly 150 people lining up outside the hospital, eager to catch a space in line. The second day was also the first full day in which the x-ray station, laboratory station and optometry station were used. Certain moments felt frenzied – a constant buzz that was felt every time we saw patients in line. Procedures continued – the first C-Section occurred, as did the delivery of a woman in the backseat of her car.
It was in moments like these in which the IDF delegation’s true nature was shown – its commitment to helping, without any desire or need for a thank you. The overall feeling here is one of persistence and commitment to a cause – to do whatever is needed to help the people in need.
IDF pediatric specialist, Col. Dr. Albukirk, on the job
Reprinted with permission from the IDF Blog article "A Soldier's First-Person account of Devastation & Hope in the Philippines"
(39) SH, May 21, 2014 11:38 PM
salamat
It's only now i read this, but i also say thanks to your nation for reaching out to ours then.
(38) Julie Clark, November 24, 2013 12:11 AM
The Jewish population is so vast
Back in 1969 my parents and I were in Israel ... we stayed at a kibbuts for a night and a man asked a question ... Dad looked at the man and said 'impossible' ... after the discussion ... Dad went to this lady (who was from South Africa) and asked if she had a man on the tour by the name of Hymie Miller on the tour ... she said NO BUT WE HAVE JOE MILLER ... it was Dad's cousin's son who Dad had not seen since migrating to Australia in 1930's ...he was there with his wife and family ... Dad, Mum and I had a very enjoyable time with them ... as the saying goes ... ONLY IN ISRAEL
(37) Naomi, November 22, 2013 9:23 PM
Inspiring!
What an amazing Kiddush HaShem (sanctification of G-d's name). Beautiful!
(36) Sam NY, November 22, 2013 8:05 AM
Chosen People of God
Shalom! We deeply appreciate your unselfish, heartfelt commitment to those in need, "love thy neighbors" . You were first on the scene. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, your God, my God will always protect! you from your enemies, "Ishmael" descendants. I have always supported missionaries to Israel in the past financially and persevering intercessions till today. "Be strong and courageous", "the battle is not yours, it's Mine", God gave you your land, always remind PM Bibi and your leaders. He will be with you till the end! we love you, we stand with you " Be strong and courageous always!" God bless you!
(35) Joan Katzman, November 22, 2013 2:22 AM
Israel - a Light to the Nations
There are no words that can express the pride that fills my heart for our beloved Israel, a nation like no other. They are truly a light to the nations. May Hashem always bless and protect our beloved Land and our People who dwell there.
(34) Elvira Dureza, November 22, 2013 1:50 AM
Israelis your are really the chosen people of God. Thank you for your much needed help to the Pilipino people. SALAMAT!
(33) Eddie Ferstadt, November 21, 2013 6:04 PM
Pesach (Passover) In Manila
In 1958, while in the US Air Force...I attended services at a beautiful synagoge on Taft Avenue in Manila....As a Jewish man...I am very proud to have my people Israel assisting a wonderful nation, and a beautiful people...
(32) Giselle Ay-ad, November 21, 2013 3:46 PM
Shalom! I'm going to northern cebu this weekend to help deliver some relief goods to an islet nearby. Hoping to see my jewish brethren on our way there. By the way, it's great to see Philippine and Israel flag together. I can't help but cry. You remind me so much of HATIKVAH. Such a beautiful song of HOPE. RAV TODOT Israel for bringing HOPE to everyone. Your kind heart and friendly spirit shall NEVER be forgotten. You have touched so many lives. So stand proud ISRAEL. The PHILIPPINES is with you! :)
(31) Giselle Ay-ad, November 21, 2013 3:05 PM
Such a beautiful nation with a Golden Heart. You are indeed the beautiful rose among the thorns. No wonder you are so blessed! I wish I can be an IDF like you someday. You are indeed an inspiration to everyone. TODAH RABAH from the bottom of our hearts. AM YISRAEL CHAI ! :)
(30) RIO, November 21, 2013 12:02 PM
Thank you
From the Philippines to Israel: Maraming-maraming salamat po! Thank you so much!
(29) Anonymous, November 21, 2013 6:57 AM
you maake me sooooo proud
thank you
(28) Ruthgrace, November 21, 2013 2:22 AM
Thank you much..
(27) Peter, November 21, 2013 1:54 AM
Praise God for Israel and the Jewish people
We are supposed to see the troops from the Muslim nations in the Middle East doing this kind of works in Philippines, but the so called killers and inhuman people from Israel are doing great work among the victims.
Media organisations please remember these pictures when you write your next drivel about this great nation and her people.
(26) Patriot, November 20, 2013 4:33 PM
Israel, Their continuous struggle for survival is the hope for all mankind. They have and continue to help all the world wherever
disasters occur. God Bless This Nation
(25) Anonymous, November 20, 2013 2:10 PM
Thank you Israel!
We are very grateful for your kind assistance, in behalf of the victims of typhoon yolanda in the Visayas, thank you so much and God bless!
(24) romeo, November 20, 2013 11:02 AM
A Million Thanks...
It's beyond words what Israel and other nations did in helping the typhoon victims. Thank you so much, Israel.
(23) Ana Freitas, November 20, 2013 10:18 AM
Israel make the world be full of fruits of life!
I thank God for His Chosen People Israel. The hope for all nations and the blessings for all mankind. Love so much Israel. May God bless the FDI and their families. You`re the answer of the prayers on behalf Filipines. I
(22) Raymond, November 20, 2013 9:01 AM
Good
I Raymond feel good for the Israelis as they rapidly responded to provide assistance in philipine . Don't get discouraged despite the fact that people speak badly to you. Remember fruitful tree is the one tend to be stoned. May God bless you.
(21) Michael Richard Silbermann, November 20, 2013 7:38 AM
Tsedakah, What Jewish people give of themselves to the world.
Without thought of what praises to come. Humanitaryan deeds of help to those people in dire need, no mater of which religion, creed or nationality. What of those terrorist movements. are they there to help. I do not believe they know how to help thiere fellow man. Maybe if they see my comments they will GIVE PEACE A CHANCE. Shalom.M.R.S.
(20) Rita Indyk, November 20, 2013 1:04 AM
I'm so proud to be Jewish.
What Israel is doing to assist in the Philippines is truly remarkable, and for that they will be blessed. On the other hand, what are the Muslims doing to help? I believe there is a sizeable Muslim population there.
(19) De, November 20, 2013 12:11 AM
Thankyou Israel for all you have done and are doing for the world in general,what a wonderful way the creator has caused His blessings to fall on us.
(18) Anonymous, November 19, 2013 10:46 PM
Toda raba!
Baruch HaShem and our continued prayers for Yisrael. A blessed Hanukkah in my country should you still be there when Hanukkah comes .
(17) Fred, November 19, 2013 10:36 PM
that's life
Israel has and does offer so much to the world. I do not understand why many others just do not copy all the good Israelis do for others. Muslims could learn oodles from the Jews how to care for each other.
(16) martin, November 19, 2013 9:59 PM
the best of the best
Makes me proud of the Jewish State
(15) Ruth Hirt, November 19, 2013 9:04 PM
You are much appreciated, much loved Israel !!!
It is certainly a joy to experience and witness your noble, sacrificial commitment to help and relieve the calamity victims of our country the Philippines. We are glad that you offer your valuable time, resources, knowledge, expertize and efforts whereas, inspite of the security and contingency needs of your own war-battered borders with your neighbors, your aid-relief came to help us and this most valuable gesture of compassion and humanitarian help is what one can call, sacrificial help, a sacrificial help, for you responded a call of moral duty even when it is beyond your capacity owing to the fact your own people may require your active help who can undergo abrupt attacks from your neighboring adversaries. For this reason, your presence in the Philippine disaster area is doubly precious, vitally precious and we whole-heartedly reiterate our gratitude. These days, HaSHEM is gradually baring all to the world that Israel is The Blessing to the world as HE spoke to your forefather Abraham.
(14) Kenny Komodo, November 19, 2013 8:30 PM
where are those wealthy Arab countries?
Israel, such a small country with a small population yet they are among the first to be on the scene of the fury of Typhoon Haiyan. So where, I wonder, is the help and assistance from wealthy Arab countries? Is there any cause I seriously doubt it. This report just shows the world what Israel and the Israeli people are made of.
(13) Anonymous, November 19, 2013 8:25 PM
Mercy, Grace, & Love to IDF. Load of thanks.
(12) mike diamond, November 19, 2013 8:18 PM
thanks for your service
GOD BLESS ISRAEL AND THESE SOLDIERS,NURSES AND DOCTORS WHO HELP THE PHILIPINO PEOPLE!
(11) Shirley, November 19, 2013 8:11 PM
Always there to count on
Israel is always among the first to respond to a crises, anywhere in the world. How awesome! It makes me puff up with pride.
(10) Marilyn Nathan, November 19, 2013 7:11 PM
Seeing Israel respond makes me very proud to be a Jew
Israel is rarely complimented for the good it does for other countries in need. Seeing our response to this disaster makes me very very proud to be Jewish,
(9) Sally, November 19, 2013 6:22 PM
Truly Remarkable
Israel to be praised! I would like to see what the Muslims are doing to help!
(8) Donna Schmidt, November 19, 2013 5:59 PM
Thank you IDF
I am neither Israeli or Filipino but I just had to tell you how grateful I am to G_D that you were there to help these people who are in such desperate need! You are G_D with skin on to them!
I am so proud of what you are doing! You are the face and the heart of the Jewish nation, regardless of the vicious lies told about Israel in the world today!
May the blessing of your presence there be repaid to you and to the IDF 100 fold from the hand of the Almighty–even though you seek no repayment!
Shalom!
(7) Paul, November 19, 2013 5:40 PM
Thank you
Am Yisrael chai!
Thank you, on behalf of the people from the old country.
(6) bob, November 19, 2013 5:24 PM
G-d bless my chavera doing true "good"
I love Israel and every day I read theJ Post I always have pride in being part of this family of G-ds children. My kibbutz experience in 61 was 7 months of learning the true meaning of what our destiny is. Our 150 ambassdors to Philip. deserve the world to know what we really are and do with and for the world.
(5) Anita, November 19, 2013 4:44 PM
Very Thoughtful
It is just wonderrful to see how the Israelis are pitching in to help those in the Philliipines. People still speak evil of Israel. There is a large Muslim population in Phillipines. What are the Mustlim states doing. It seems that when disaster strikes the most maligned countries are the ones that are dependable.. What a shame.
Susan, November 19, 2013 8:54 PM
Israel is a truly wonderful country full of loving people.
Am Yisroel Chai! I am so proud of these unselfish people who volunteered to aid the people in the Phillipines. Mahy you all be blessed!
(4) sh;omo goldhaber, November 19, 2013 4:32 PM
Me k'amcho yisroel
(3) hy grossman, November 19, 2013 4:14 PM
great story
a wonderful report n what Israel is truly all about
(2) michelle, November 19, 2013 4:10 PM
you are fantastic
I WISH THE WORLD WILL NOTICE.
DID ANY ARAB COUNTRY SEND HELP?
PROUD OF YOU!
(1) April Sharrock, November 19, 2013 2:56 PM
I'm so proud to be a supporter of the State of Israel!
With God's help, You are such doers of good!