International community offers aid to Lando victims

MANILA, Philippines - The international community yesterday started efforts to bring relief to thousands affected by Typhoon Lando (Koppu) in the Philippines.

Australia will provide P33 million in emergency relief supplies to assist communities and families affected by Lando.

France also expressed its solidarity with the Philippines and offered assistance.

“As the Philippines had just been struck by Typhoon Lando, which has led to dozens of casualties, France assures its solidarity to the Philippine government and to the Filipino people,” the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development said in a statement. “We extend our condolences to the families of the victims.”

The French ministry said France “stands together with the Philippine government as we express our readiness to give favorable consideration to any request for assistance.”

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop yesterday announced the Australian government’s assistance to the typhoon victims.

“Australia, as a close friend of the Philippines, is saddened by the loss of life and damage to homes and property in the wake of this tragedy,” Bishop said.

Despite the high number of casualties, Bishop commended the Philippine government for its disaster preparedness in mitigating the damage to lives and property caused by Lando.

“I commend the government of the Philippines for its leadership and preparedness measures, and for quickly mobilizing its domestic resources to support affected communities and provide timely assistance,” she said.

“As a good friend and neighbor, the Philippines can expect that Australia will continue to support its close friend and partner during this time. We will work closely with the Philippine government and partners to support the typhoon relief efforts as required,” Australian Ambassador Bill Tweddell said.

In support of the Philippine government’s response efforts, Australia will release prepositioned in-country stores with the United Nations Population Fund, World Food Program and the Philippine Red Cross to affected communities.

These include dignity kits through the UN Population Fund, containing malong cloths, bath towels, slippers, combs, nail clippers, maternity napkins, underwear, bath soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, laundry bar and toilet paper;

Family kits through the Philippine Red Cross, containing sleeping mats, blankets, mosquito nets, jerry cans, hygiene kits and tarpaulins as emergency shelter; rice supply and high-energy biscuits through the World Food Program. – With Rainier Allan Ronda, Non Alquitran