On 17 December 2011, typhoon Washi smashed into Mindanao, in the Southern Philippines, causing severe flooding in Cagayan de Oro, Iligan City and Lanao del Norte.
Caritas Philippines recently sent out a report with all the latest information gathered by its rescue teams to the entire international network. The magnitude of the disaster is such that the country’s president Aquino has declared a state of national emergency and mobilized urgent rescue and state assistance services to help the victims. Alongside these teams, Caritas Philippines has launched a fresh appeal for support from every diocese in the country, encouraging the Philippine Church to channel funds towards the Dioceses of Iligan and Cagayán de Oro.
The latest official figures put the death toll at 998, while the number of disappeared is still undetermined. The majority of the deaths occurred in the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, and in the regions of Bukidnon and Negros Oriental.
The diocese Disaster Coordination Committee has deployed its rescue teams to these regions, providing emergency support for the hundreds of people displaced and taking shelter in schools, churches and indoor sports centers. The most pressing needs at the moment are for food, drinking water, medicine, toiletries, bedding and clothing. Caritas Spain is taking an active and urgent role in these programs, making various contributions based on the needs of the victims and size of the population affected.
How to make a donation to the <<Caritas with Southeast Asia>> campaign
You can transfer your donation to account number: BBVA 0182-2370-41-0208510318, or call 902 339 999. You can also visit the Caritas website.
