Marinel Sumook Ubaldo was a teenager when Typhoon Yolanda destroyed her village in the province of Samar, the Philippines. Five years later, the Philippine government still hasn’t provided liveable housing for the people affected. 

In 2013 Typhoon Yolanda killed over 6,000 people in the Philippines and left millions without homes. Since then, the government has built less than half the homes needed. Marinel also says that these houses often don’t have water, electricity or toilets, and some are built in places where it is impossible to earn a living.

Marinel has a degree in social work. A nature lover and well-known youth activist, she spends her spare time campaigning for her community’s rights.
“I’m not just… a climate statistic,” she says. “My story is only one of many, and I’m here to speak on behalf of the vulnerable and the marginalised communities – may our voices be heard.”

Marinel remains dedicated to ensuring governments around the world confront climate change and tackle its effects on her community, and others like them. 

Stand with Marinel and other climate change survivors: call on President Duterte to provide access to liveable housing for the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda.