Parola is one of the largest shantytowns in the Philippines. It is in the capital, Manila, on a long stretch of low-lying land between the Pasig River and the busy North Harbour Shipping Terminal. It is the home to some 4000 families. On March 2, 2015, a fire which started from an unattended flame, swept swiftly through the whole area devouring everything in its path.
Because the fire spread so rapidly the residents were lucky to escape with the clothes on their backs. Amazingly, not one life was lost. Fire trucks could do little but hose water from outside since the shacks were haphazardly built with no proper streets, only narrow footpaths which zigzagged between the houses. By the time the flames died and the smoke began to clear all the houses had been destroyed.
As I made my way there soon after the fire I did not know what to expect or what to say. To my great surprise I was met by an enthusiastic community gathered in their burned out chapel anxious to have Mass celebrated even though all that remained of the chapel, the altar, seats and statues was a heap of cinders. I have rarely taken part in such an impressive liturgy. The singing and joyful participation was truly uplifting. They were praising and thanking God that no lives were lost.
One of the people said: “As long as there is life there is hope and with God's help all obstacles can be overcome in time. Even though we have lost everything, we are alive and that is what matters.” To say something like that at a time like that certainly was a great act of faith.
Government agencies offered to relocate many of the families from the water's edge to nearby provinces but because wages for laborers and tradesmen are low and the cost of travel expensive, many have preferred to stay in Parola even though living conditions are terrible.
The shacks have been re-erected and the narrow lane ways are again full of activities. The voluntary labour of the Christian Community members has partially restored their chapel and it remains a work in progress with the support of Fr Jeremiah Adviento (Parish Priest). The chapel has been re-roofed and is being used for religious activities, meetings and catechesis.
Shantytown fires are not uncommon in the Philippines. Because of its size and destructiveness the one in Parola was a terrifying experience for those who had been forced to make their homes there. Economically they may be close to the bottom of the social ladder but when it comes to resilience and faith in God and in each other, they surely must be counted among those near the top.
Columban Fr John Keenan has been a Columban missionary priest in the Philippines since 1966.