25 June 2008

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched an emergency appeal to assist thousands of people affected by Typhoon Fengshen, which hit the Philippines on 18 June.

Heavy rains and strong winds tore across the country for five days causing widespread flooding, leaving families homeless and vulnerable as tens of thousands of houses collapsed.

The National Disaster Co-ordinating Council said almost one million people have been affected, with 177 reported dead and hundreds more missing after a ferry capsized on 21 June. The British Red Cross is contributing £25,000 to the Federation response.

Emergency response

The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) responded immediately, with volunteers deployed to help evacuate affected people.

So far, the Red Cross has provided 3,400 families with an emergency food package of rice, sardines and noodles. Canteen services have also been provided in more than 800 evacuation centres.

Local PNRC branches are also assisting survivors of the ferry sinking as well as providing psychological support to families waiting for news of missing passengers.

Relief priorities

The typhoon caused severe damage to roads and other public infrastructure including the water system, resulting in serious health risks.

The Red Cross response is focused on providing safe water to prevent the spread of waterborne disease. With the monsoon season in full effect, the organisation will also distribute typhoon-resistant shelters to 5,000 of the most vulnerable families.

Rachid Boumnijel, British Red Cross relief support officer, said: "This is the worst typhoon to hit the Philippines this year, but the Philippine National Red Cross is experienced in dealing with such disasters. They are working closely with the government to ensure a well-coordinated response effort."

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