Canberra, 24 December 2021 (TDI): Australia will donate $5 million in immediate assistance to the people of the Philippines in order to assist them in recovering from the destruction caused by Super Typhoon Rai, locally known as Typhoon Odette.
The Philippines government reports that the typhoon has affected up to 2.6 million people, with thousands staying in emergency shelters and fresh food, water, power, and essential amenities are out of reach from many others.
Australian Assistance for the Philippines
In this regard, Australian assistance includes the funds for the Philippines’ Red Cross UNPF, WFP, Agriculture Organization, International Organization of Migration, Australian NGOs, and Local NGOs to provide relief materials for life-saving assistance.
The life-saving assistance includes shelter, water, hygiene kits, essential child & maternal health services, that will provide protection for the affectees on an urgent basis.
Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Marise Payne said that Australia will continue working with the government of the Philippines and humanitarian organizations to respond to this calamity.
🇦🇺 is standing with the Philippines, providing $5 million in humanitarian relief to assist those impacted by Typhoon Rai #OdettePH. I convey 🇦🇺’s condolences to those who lost loved ones or have been displaced by this disaster. #MateshipandBayanihan
@teddyboylocsin pic.twitter.com/bz29hb050c— Marise Payne (@MarisePayne) December 23, 2021
She conveyed Australia’s commiserations and profound feelings to those families in the Philippines who have lost loved ones or whose lives have been affected by this disaster.
Australia and the Philippines have a long history of bilateral ties and Bayanihan, with 2021 being the 75th year of diplomatic ties. Bayanihan is a Philippine word that means “a spirit of civic unity and cooperation among Filipinos.”
Super Typhoon Rai
Super Typhoon Rai was an intense typhoon with winds of about 195km/h and it sent approximately 400,000 people running for safety. It made landfall at the country’s south-eastern islands.
At least 375 people are now known to have died and 500 people were injured. Furthermore, 56 others are reported to be missing by the local police. Rescue teams are looking for survivors whereas help in the form of aid has poured in.
