M/V Eva Jocelyn Shrine Tacloban holds a significant place in the history of Tacloban. This large cargo vessel was swept ashore in the coastal barangay of Anibong during the devastating storm surge caused by Super Typhoon Yolanda exactly five years ago on a Thursday. While technically still in its original position, the bow of the ship has been artistically transformed into a captivating tourist attraction by the city government.
Visitors to this landmark can now not only marvel at the vessel’s imposing presence but also indulge in various activities. One of the most popular recreations involves posing in Kate Winslet’s iconic stance from the “Titanic” movie. Additionally, the ship’s surroundings have been enhanced to provide a more visually appealing experience. A steel barricade now encloses the area, ensuring safety while preserving the aesthetic charm. The body of the ship has been repainted from its original blue and red to an elegant combination of blue and brown, accentuating its grandeur. The name “M/V Eva Jocelyn” has been highlighted with white paint, proudly adorned on the vessel’s side. The deck, fully tiled, adds to the allure of this unique attraction. Standing tall above it all, the waving Philippine flag adds a touch of patriotism and unity.
Hidden beneath the deck is a small office manned by four dedicated security guards, ensuring the safety and well-being of both visitors and the memorial site itself.
A marker, providing insights into the catastrophic event that occurred on that fateful day, adds a sense of solemnity to the atmosphere. It reads: “On November 8, 2013, at 7 a.m., M/V Eva Jocelyn, which was anchored in the city harbor, ran aground and claimed the lives of residents of Barangay Anibong. It was pushed by a 7-meter high storm surge caused by winds exceeding 370km/h brought by Super Typhoon Yolanda.” These words serve as a poignant reminder of the immense loss suffered by the local community during the disaster.
Super Typhoon Yolanda, internationally known as Haiyan, left a profound impact on the entire Visayas region. With the loss of over 6,000 lives and catastrophic damage to property and livelihood, the tragedy still resonates deeply within the hearts of the people. Tacloban, the capital of Leyte, bore the brunt of Yolanda’s fury, with an estimated death toll of 2,000.
While other Yolanda memorial sites in the province, such as the mass graves in Barangay Fatima or in nearby Palo, evoke a solemn sense of grief for the lives lost, M/V Eva Jocelyn Shrine Tacloban leaves its visitors in awe of the sheer force of nature. It stands as a testament to the power of superstorms, a reminder that we are merely at the mercy of our environment.
Today, as you walk through the area surrounding M/V Eva Jocelyn Shrine Taclobann, take a moment to reflect on the resilience of the Tacloban community and the strength that can be found in the face of adversity. It is through experiences like these that we learn to appreciate the beauty of life and the indomitable spirit of humanity.