UK gives aid to isolated islands

CEBU, Philippines - The government of the United Kingdom has donated at least 80 million pounds of relief goods to victims of super typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas.

The relief goods, distribution of which has started last night, were distributed by UK government’s warship, HMS Daring that arrived in Cebu yesterday.

Ambassador Asif Ahmad said the goods will be distributed to at least 48 islands in the Visayas which they surveyed starting in Palawan since November 15.

The goods consist of energy biscuits, rice, water, and basic sanitation equipment, among others, said Ahmad. He said they have equipment that can convert even seawater into purified water.

He said the goods will be distributed by HMS Daring’s helicopter to calamity-hit areas especially in smaller islands in other parts of the Visayas where relief goods have not reached so far.

Among the islands that will receive help from the UK government are the Calamian group in Palawan, Sibay Island, and Panay Island.

“The commitment of the United Kingdom government goes beyond immediate need,” said Ahmed.

He said they will be donating more if more relief goods are needed.

Ship Captain Angus Essenhigh of HMS Daring said these tiny islands also incurred severe damages from typhoon Yolanda, and apparently have not yet received relief goods and other assistance.

Calls for “Help” were in fact, written on the shores of the islands, said Essenhigh as he presented a slideshow of the island that they have surveyed through their helicopter.

The 8,000-ton Type 45 Anti-Air Warfare Destroyer provides the backbone of the Royal Navy’s air defenses and can also undertake defense diplomacy and disaster relief operations. — (FREEMAN)