MANILA, Philippines – Disasters bring out the best and worst out of people. In the case of the triple whammy of earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster that struck Japan, there has been nothing but praise from an astonished world for the patience, decorum, and stoicism of the Japanese.

Although the world had literally collapsed on them, the children of the samurai went about trying to survive without the usual violence that accompanies such historic catastrophe.

We see them waiting for three days in their cars for gasoline; hours in line for their food supply. Threatened by the shortage of food, water, and the necessities of daily life, they wait for their turn to be served.

Surrounded by food and beverages from toppled vending machines, you never see them loot their contents.

Despite the wide swath of devastation and the threat of imminent death from famine and disease, there was no widespread mayhem, looting, or vandalism.

I have seen more panicky kababayans, leaving work and schools, fearing for the nuclear meltdown in Fukushima.

As usual, the local text brigade had their field day spreading doomsday scenario and finding hilarity in seeing people terrified by their false alarm.

Is there anything for us to learn from this disaster? What the Japanese have shown – utmost civility, selflessness, and respect for one another – seems their key to survival.

This early, even when the nuclear meltdown’s destiny remains uncertain, we can be sure that the Japanese will come out stronger and resilient more than ever.

The glue that held them together following their unique customs and traditions was first, love of country, then the company they work for, then family, and last, self.