BATAAN — Young environmental advocates called for justice for victims and survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda and greater government accountability during a commemoration marking the 13th anniversary of the disaster.

The Young Bataeños for Environment Advocacy Network (Young BEAN) said the gathering brought together young people to remember those who died and discuss continuing concerns over disaster preparedness, government response, corruption and the worsening climate crisis.

In a statement, the group said many families affected by Yolanda continue to struggle to recover and rebuild their lives, 13 years after the typhoon devastated parts of the country.

It also raised concerns over what it described as persistent shortcomings in government accountability and disaster response, saying communities remain vulnerable whenever calamities strike.

Young BEAN stressed that the resilience of Filipinos should not be used to justify government inaction, calling instead for accountability, adequate assistance to affected communities and concrete measures to protect people from disasters.

The group also urged the public, particularly the youth, to remember the lessons of Yolanda and demand answers on the use of public funds, disaster preparedness and government responsibility.

“Remembering Yolanda also means looking at what is happening today,” the group said, emphasizing the need to pursue climate justice and justice for all victims and survivors. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)