From Local Youth to Community Savior
A 24-year-old man from Liloan has been officially hired as a responder for Barangay Mabolo in Cebu City after his heroic actions during the onslaught of Typhoon Tino saved at least twelve lives. Joshua Sandal, once known in his area as a 'bugoy' or troubled youth, is now a recognized member of the Safeguard Mabolo Response Team (SMART).
A Hero's Harrowing Rescue Mission
Nearly two weeks after Typhoon Tino unleashed two-story-high floods in parts of Liloan, Jubay, and adjacent areas, the barangay formally recognized Sandal's efforts on Friday, November 15. His courageous acts have garnered widespread praise online. Facing floodwaters he estimated to be 14 feet deep, Sandal repeatedly braved the strong current and debris-filled water, holding onto nothing but a power cable. He crossed back and forth to guide stranded residents, including an eight-month-old baby, to safety.
The scenes he encountered were harrowing. Sandal recounted retrieving dead bodies and tying them to lampposts to prevent them from being washed away before authorities could recover them.
Recognition and a New Path Forward
In recognition of his bravery, Joshua Sandal will receive a monthly salary of at least P12,000 as a barangay responder. Furthermore, he has been granted a scholarship and a monthly allowance to support his future. This public acclaim and support came in response to online calls for him to be recognized, trained, and given opportunities.
This act of recognizing youthful valor is not isolated in Barangay Mabolo. Earlier in the week, the barangay also praised 15-year-old Jayboy, a young flood hero from Liloan, and awarded him a scholarship for his own life-saving efforts during Typhoon Tino.
