The Marawi Siege: A Note

24 May 2017 at 11:47 PM

The fireworks display for the graduates the other night was majestic. But it was countered with yesterday's exploding grenades and the sound of gunfires. A jail and a school were set on fire. Roads were closed. Entries were blocked. For the first time in my life as an MSUan I fear for what is to come. For the first time, I am not able to sleep. As of writing, I can still hear them. I can hear them throwing away detonating things as if they were toys to play with. I have no knowledge as to what cause they are fighting for. The only thing I know now is that I want to stay alive.

Yes, I have heard explosions and gunshots before. I felt scared at first but I got used to it. It's actually a "normal" thing here. This time was different, though. I felt trapped. With nowhere to go. With no electricity and soon no water. I think this is what they meant when they said that if you graduate as an MSUan in Marawi City, you are a survivor. It was true after all. You don't just strive for academic excellence. You also strive to live. By living, I meant living with humility, open-mindedness, and a spirit of brotherhood --the pacifist way.

I entered this university and experienced the "Ambush," as we call it. Now, when I am about to leave, I experience this. I hope this will go away soon. It's terrifying to think who will come knocking at your door. It gives you goosebumps.

Wait. What about the children out there? Ah, the children. What will this do to them? I can hardly imagine.

Hahay.

I just want to sleep. We need to sleep. This city needs to sleep and wake up to a fresher start. Let the rain pour down and wash away the evil that stained the streets.

I weep for this city. But I cry for my fellow students. God is with us. Pray for sustenance. Pray for peace...

Because I can still hear them.

A note I made last year. For catharsis. To keep me sane.