27 years after the sinking of MV Doña Paz

On Dec. 20, we commemorate the death of my loved ones and all those who have perished in the world’s worst sea tragedy, the sinking of MV Doña Paz, when it collided with an oil tanker in Tablas Strait, Mindoro.

It has been 27 years since the death of my parents and sister. Each year brings a painful memory… I and the rest of my siblings were orphaned at a very young age.

But my family never stops praying and thanking the Lord for taking a “spiritual eraser” and wiping away the pain from our hearts and minds. For setting us free from the trauma we felt. For being there during our times of sorrow, our grief and mourning, and most especially for giving us joy and peace in our hearts during this Yuletide.

Again, a blessed Christmas to everyone!

—MAITA ESPINA-ABUNALES,

Bacoor, Cavite