Raise the Roof
Posted by Philippines - 04/10/2009
Typhoon Ondoy has left over 500,000 more people homeless in greater Manila. It has brought people together and aid has flowed in from the world.
In a gesture of unity, forty-five rock bands gave a benefit concert, at one of the main aid tents that have been set up in Manila. Paul Zialcita and the Philippine Homeless World Cup Team opened the “Raise the Roof” concert. Reah Medenilla, social worker for Jeepney magazine and staff member of Team Philippines, sounded like Mel Young, as she clearly stated. “We are here for all homeless. The homeless from Typhoon Ondoy and the homeless on the street of Cubao. Everyone needs a home.”
For those of you who have heard Paul drum in the Philippines, Italy, Germany or other parts of the world, his music is a challenging extension of his life and love for his country. It leaves no room for compromise. It demands change. Paul and the Filipino team beat out a challenge and a hope for the future. As the opening performance they communicated a powerful statement using a trash can, water bottles and a football.
One of the goals of the Filipino organization, Urban Opportunities for Change, is to provide this team, who has been empowered with self-worth and awareness, to continue using football, music and art, to speak out. With Paul’s leadership they did it powerfully and emotionally Thursday night.
As the slow process of cleanup and restoration begin. As the dead are buried and mourned. The Philippines prepares for another onslaught, from Super Typhoon Parma. That too shall pass, and so I fear will our urgency.
Today we are all aware of homelessness. It isn’t creeping in the corners, like mold in the cellar, but battering our own living rooms, dampening our own fine clothes. The question is who will care tomorrow, when things dry out and the sun is shining. Who will remember enough to make a difference? Perhaps a ball and drum will help.
Keep playing Paul and Team Philippines. Keep making noise! Raise the roof. Everyone needs a home.
Bill and Debbi Shaw Jeepney - Philippines HWC www.thejeepney.com
