The fierce Typhoon No. 3, named Yagi, ended almost a week ago. However, the devastation it left behind remains harrowing, with daily reports of losses increasing. It has been decades since the Ha Noi capital has faced such a catastrophic storm.

Da Nang sent two teams to prune and clear trees in support of Ha Noi and Hai Phong, helping to address the damage caused by Typhoon No. 3. Photo courtesy of the Da Nang Park- Green Tree Company.

The statistics are stark but heartbreaking. Images of trees, including ancient and heritage trees, strewn across roads, damaging homes, monuments, and landmarks have caused distress not only in Viet Nam but also globally. This distress is not fleeting sympathy, nor is it just a passing trend on social media. It has turned into practical, meaningful, and deeply humane actions.

At a macro level, the political system has swiftly and proactively responded to address the consequences of Typhoon No. 3. On the morning of September 8, during an online conference to assess the response and recovery efforts, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called on people, organisations, businesses, and unaffected regions to support those impacted. His message was clear: “Give what you can, whether it’s resources or labour,” embodying the spirit of solidarity and compassion.

Severely affected provinces such as Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Hai Duong, Ha Noi, Bac Giang, Thai Nguyen, and Hoa Binh have taken this to heart. Day and night, leaders remain close to the situation, ensuring timely and effective measures.

Mr Bui Thi Minh Hoai, Secretary of the Ha Noi Party Committee, personally contacted all 30 district and commune leaders, urging them to mobilise all political forces to ensure the safety of the people. This is a display of responsibility, dedicated to those suffering the most.

In line with the nation's long-standing tradition of “love others like you love yourself” the media has also played a significant role in supporting those affected by Typhoon No. 3. Beyond timely and touching reports, many media outlets have launched initiatives to assist the victims. Several news agencies have made emergency donations and called on readers from across the country and abroad to contribute. Many media agencies are acting as bridges to deliver financial and material aid to those in need.

Even a brief look at these actions reveals the compassion and mutual assistance that arises in times of disaster. Citizens affected by the storm have also shown acts of kindness, moving hearts nationwide. From slowing down trucks and cars to shield motorcyclists on Ha Noi's Nhat Tan Bridge, to backing up vehicles to shield others from the storm's winds, to offering spare rooms to those in need of safer accommodation – these are spontaneous yet powerful examples of humanity in action.

Such small, incidental acts of kindness reflect the spirit of unity that runs deep in the Vietnamese people. Unity is a core value that President Ho Chi Minh highlighted in his will, written 55 years ago. In his testament, he emphasised: “Unity is a precious tradition of our Party and our people, and we must preserve this unity like the apple of our eye.”

Indeed, in the face of not only Typhoon No. 3 but also other natural disasters, the Vietnamese people, united by a shared heritage, stand together. There is no hesitation, no calculation – just a readiness to help and support.

In reality, the compassion seen during disasters is merely a more pronounced version of the everyday kindness that exists in Viet Nam. From daily policies of the Party and State to the actions of individuals, the nation is constantly working to ensure that no one is left behind. Whether through government initiatives or the deeds of Vietnamese people living abroad, the spirit of giving and support is ever-present.

This deep-seated sense of humanity is the foundation of Viet Nam’s strength. Over thousands of years, through countless struggles, it has remained resilient, helping the nation rise to its current position of international respect and influence. This foundation will continue to guide Viet Nam forward, ensuring that future generations build on the legacy of solidarity and compassion that has been so painstakingly created and nurtured.

Reporting by NGUYEN TRI THUC - Translating by TRUC VY