Grieving mom draws strength from kids who perished in Naga slide

MARILYN Versales, the mother of Vianca and Micheal Versales can still vividly remember the times when she would let her son and daughter light candles for their departed relatives on All Souls Day.

This year, she is leading a prayer vigil for them at the Naalad Cemetery in Naga City.

Over a month has passed since the landslide buried with it over 70 lives who were mostly buried at the Naalad Cemetery.

Upon hearing of the news about the landslide last September 20, the 43-year-old mother who at that time was working in Kuwait, said she immediately went to the Philippine embassy to request for a ticket home.

“When I read the news, I immediately clutched on my calendar bearing the face of Christ,” she said.

She recalled how she momentarily lost faith in God when she learned that her two kids were among the landslide fatalities.

“Wala nay mu text nako nga ‘Ma, ting bayad na,’” Marilyn said.

But Marilyn remembered how Micheal and Vianca would encourage her not to give up whenever she feels down.

Now, her wish is for the two to continue giving her strength and courage as she prepares to leave for Kuwait on November 5.

Meanwhile, friends and relatives of those who perished in the landslide continue to flock to the Naalad Cemetery on Thursday to light candles and offer prayers for the eternal repose of their souls.