By Erika Marie Hestoria At first, the rains were a welcome sight, Thanked by all, a blessing of light. A heavenly gift, they used to say, Making green leaves flourish every day. A country known for its power and grace, Brave, majestic, and in a good place. Blessed by nature, its bounty and art, From the mountains to the sea, a blessed part. But how did what was once loved turn to fear? Now every drop is a mournful tear. A sudden flood is what we dread, With every cloud that hangs overhead. How could the strong suddenly become weak? Like the roads and bridges, a hollow shriek. How could the brave turn to scared? Our mighty hope, suddenly ensnared. And those we thought were good and true, Are the ones who extinguish our hope anew. The government, our support, where has it gone? Didn't they promise to fight for us from dusk 'til dawn? Philippines, how will you rise again? When your own people are the source of all your pain.