A Christmas Appeal for the Victims of Rapu-rapu fishkill and militarization in Surigao December 4, 2007 Dear Sisters and Brothers, The cold December wind reminds us how Mary, Joseph and Jesus were coping to survive. No doors of comfortable homes were opened to them, as everyone was busy and their houses were full. A humble barn temporarily sheltered them, and Jesus was born among the animals and hays. The bleak first Christmas sight resembles the plight of our brothers and sisters in Rapu-rapu in Albay and Lumad communities in Surigao, Mindanao. The latest fishkill in Rapu-rapu Island brought by the Lafayette mining operations left thousands of families hungry and vulnerable to sickness and death. Massive environmental destruction drastically deprived the people of livelihood. Meanwhile, massive militarization in 12 communities in Surigao forced more than 1,000 Lumad to evacuate. As we celebrate the Christmas season, we lament that so many of our sisters and brothers can hardly catch the Christmas mood as they struggle to cope with both natural calamities and man-made disasters. We hope that our hearts and hands would be willing enough to welcome our brothers and sisters by sharing with them the blessings we have received. We may be far away from them, but we can send our message of generosity, solidarity and kinship by extending our gifts unto those who are poor and needy. We may not know them by names and we may not be able to receive gifts from them in return, but surely, the Lord of the Star who granted the wise men the light to find their way to the Messiah will surely guide us to celebrate a meaningful Christmas. If our compassion compels you to visit them, kindly inform us so we can coordinate ahead with the local people's organizations. Attached please find detailed information on the situation in Rapu-rapu and Surigao along with the urgent appeal for immediate relief-medical support and psycho-social therapy. May your blessings increase as you share the bounty your have received. Blessings and Peace, Norma Dollaga Amie Dural Kapatirang Simbahan para sa Bayan Promotion of Church People's Response