The past week has been heavy for many of us. Just as we were still reeling from a major earthquake in September and weeks of aftershocks in October, November brought two strong typhoons that tore through Central and Northern Philippines. Like many others, my own home wasn’t spared. Our basement was waist-deep in floodwater. Everything was soaked. The only thing that kept the water from rushing inside was the perimeter wall behind the house. That wall held six feet of water. Part of the wall next door eventually gave way.
That scene is nothing compared to the stories of families who had to climb up their roofs to reach higher ground, of children and the elderly being floated on makeshift rafts for safety, of cars swept away like toys on roads turned into rivers.
We’re grateful that we’re safe. That’s what matters most.
What got us through the storms were neighbors, strangers, colleagues, community workers, even young adults showing up in full genuine Filipino hero gear, people who think of others first before themselves. It makes you pause and reflect: how much heart does it take for us to keep showing up for one another like this?
When systems falter, it’s people who hold the line. And that, I think, is what truly defines us. Not just endurance, but care in action.
Caring as a Culture
This spirit of care runs through RipeConcepts and our mothership, Nagarro. Caring is our superpower – we live by that. It’s not just a core value we talk about. It’s a great feeling knowing we’re part of a team where caring transcends boundaries.
The company has stepped in to provide financial assistance, while teammates have offered in-kind support, checked on one another, and adjusted workloads so those affected can focus on getting back on their feet. It warms the heart to see everyone step forward, asking, “Who needs help?” or “How can I pitch in?” It’s a collective effort.
This is how Filipinos have always gotten through the hardest days. Through each other, through workplaces that care, and through communities. We keep holding the line for one another.
My son's recent LEGO creation is a tribute to the Filipino spirit, rising and standing strong amidst chaos.
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