On the 18th anniversary of Super Typhoon Reming, also known internationally as Durian, Legazpi City came together to remember the devastating impact of the storm. At the Padang Memorial Shrine in Barangay Padang, families, friends, and survivors gathered to honor those lost in the tragedy that struck on November 30, 2006. The event included a solemn mass and a candle-lighting ceremony, symbolizing hope and remembrance.
Mayor Alfredo Garbin Jr. spoke at the commemoration, stressing the importance of learning from past disasters to enhance community resilience. He highlighted how Legazpi City and Albay Province have become leaders in disaster risk reduction and mitigation, a status they continue to maintain. Garbin praised the residents of Barangay Padang for their exemplary cooperation during preemptive evacuations, which has resulted in zero casualties in subsequent calamities.
Super Typhoon Reming, one of the deadliest storms to hit Albay, caused mudflows from Mayon Volcano that buried homes and claimed around 600 lives. The tragedy’s impact is still felt today, with many still unaccounted for. Barangay Padang Councilor Isidro Santander Jr., a survivor, shared his heartbreaking story of losing seven family members to the lahar from Mayon Volcano, with only he and his young daughter surviving.
Former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Christopher Co attended the memorial, reaffirming his commitment to supporting the survivors and affected families. Co mentioned recent initiatives, including training for barangay officials on water rescue operations and plans to distribute rubber boats to low-lying areas. During the ceremony, his group provided three kilos of rice to each attending family. Co also acknowledged the support from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration in dealing with recent weather disturbances in the Bicol Region.