Ten o'clock in the evening, October 26th, 2023.
Richard stood at the New Clark City airport, his gaze fixed on the descending helicopters from Aparri. The powerful rotor wash stirred the air, creating a gusty atmosphere as they approached the ground. As each helicopter touched down, their doors swung open, revealing the passengers within.
Exhausted locals from the Babuyan Islands, some clutching their belongings, others supporting each other, began to step off. The weariness from their ordeal was evident in their movements, a mixture of relief and lingering fear in their eyes. Soldiers and emergency responders quickly moved in, guiding and escorting the evacuees away from the landing zone.
