World Vision commits to Typhoon Bopha survivors for six months

Monday, December 10, 2012

One week after Typhoon Bopha first hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, aid agencies are struggling to help the almost 5.4 million people affected.

Almost 900 people remain missing and the death toll continues to climb over 600 as the grieving community begins the long rebuilding process, starting with ensuring survivors have their basic needs met.

Today World Vision will be holding another relief distribution for more than 800 families in the badly hit Compostela Valley.

It is part of a six-month program designed to provide emergency aid for more than 8000 families, including food and water, mosquito nets, cooking utensils and blankets, as well as child friendly spaces for children affected by the disaster.

World Vision staff member Crislyn Felisilda said the aid being distributed is desperately needed, with locals in some areas of Mindanao forced to beg by roadsides for food and shelter.

“Most of the crops and farms were devastated, and they served as the main source of livelihood for many residents of Compostela Valley, so families wait for any donations,” Ms Felisilda said.

Aid agencies are working in difficult conditions, with Bopha turning back towards the Philippine island of Luzon and weather forecasters warning of another possible typhoon hitting before the end of the year.

Flashfloods and landslides caused by Bopha have left wells in parts of Mindanao contaminated and full of mud, while mudslides and felled trees have hampered aid efforts by rendering roads impassable.

World Vision Australia’s head of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Anthea Spinks said the constantly growing death toll and the number of people missing would be very confronting to survivors.

“People are trying to contend with their grief and sorrow while trying to make sure their children are cared for and fed,” Ms Spinks said. “It will take a long time to return to normal, and our initial plan is to be in the affected areas for up to six months to make sure survivors don’t feel abandoned.”

To donate to the Emergency Preparedness Fund, which helps World Vision respond to disasters, call 13 32 40 or go to www.worldvision.com.au

Media contact: Kate Rose – 0418 528 683 / kate.rose@worldvision.com.au

Media Releases, Emergencies, Asia and the Pacific, Disaster relief, Flood, Philippines, Typhoon Bopha

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