Philippines Typhoon: Caritas Aust. supports relief

MEDIA RELEASE December 5, 2006

Philippines Typhoon: Caritas supports relief efforts

Caritas Australia has committed an initial $50,000 (AU) to support the relief efforts of Caritas partners as they respond to communities affected by typhoon Durian.

In the wake of last Thursday’s typhoon, more than 1000 people are reported dead or missing and 642 injured. The typhoon devastated Marinduque, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro and Bicol regions in the Central Philippines. The typhoon brought heavy rains triggering mudflows that buried many villages. To date, an estimated 1 million have been have been affected across 13 provinces. A total of 16 dioceses were affected with the dioceses of Legaspi, Virac and Boac receiving the most damage.

The floods have destroyed all of the water sources making safe drinking water a priority.

Other needs include food, tents and body bags. Other needs include water purification tablets, medicines, blankets, mattresses and candles.

Aid distribution to affected villages is difficult as roads are currently blocked and communication systems are down. In addition, there is widespread destruction of houses, school buildings and government offices in Catanduanes province.

The Caritas Internationalis network is working with local partners including Caritas Philippines and the Social Action Centres of the affected dioceses. A joint assessment is currently being conducted and Caritas partners will develop a long term response for the rehabilitation of towns and villages.

Caritas Australia is accepting donations to provide emergency aid. To make a donation please call 1800 024 413

ENDS

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