Through Smoke and Ashes: Stories of Bayanihan

We began this year in Hawaii, visiting family and reflecting on the promise of a fresh start. But that promise was quickly overshadowed by devastating news: Southern California, the region I grew up in, was on fire.

The first alarms came through family group chats—evacuation orders, photos of streets engulfed in flames. Videos showed homes reduced to ash and familiar neighborhoods swallowed by smoke.

Then came the calls from our office. Though miles away from the fires, power outages brought operations to a halt. We landed back in Southern California a few nights ago, stepping into a region scarred by loss.

Right now, I’m writing this from a library because we haven’t had power at home or in the office for two days. But even amid this uncertainty, what keeps us hopeful is seeing the bayanihan spirit come alive.

In moments like these, bayanihan—the Filipino tradition of communal unity—reminds us of the strength we find in each other. Across Southern California, people are stepping up to care for their neighbors, offering food, shelter, and support to those in need.

Libraries have opened their doors as shelters, businesses are donating resources, and grassroots organizations are rallying to ensure no one is left behind. It’s a testament to how, even in the face of unimaginable loss, humanity shines brightest.

SoCal Filipinos

If you’re looking for ways to join this movement of bayanihan, the team at @socalfilipinos has curated a list of verified GoFundMe links to assist Filipino families affected by the fires across Southern California.

You can view the list of families and contribute directly here: SoCal Filipinos GoFundMe List.

Even if you’re unable to donate, sharing this link with your friends and family can amplify these efforts and provide much-needed relief.

Bayanihan is about standing together, lifting each other up, and creating hope where there is despair. As we step into 2025, our plans may have changed, but our resolve hasn’t. Let’s work together to support those in need and remind each other of the power of unity.

Thank you for standing with us, for showing up for your community, and for embodying the spirit of bayanihan. Together, we’ll get through this.

- Hot Tropiks