SEEING the damage caused by Super Typhoon Rolly (international name: Goni) on Sunday, the United Nations, European Union, and Canada have expressed readiness to assist in the recovery of the Philippines, whose “funds have been depleted in its continuing battle against COVID-19 pandemic.”
The EU Delegation in Manila sent a solidarity message to the Filipino people, particularly those in hardest-hit Bicol Region.
“EU stands ready to assist in recovery efforts. The resiliency, strength, and courage of the Filipinos will persevere in these trying times,” the EU said in a statement.
The Canadian government for its part said it is concerned by the typhoon’s impact on the Philippines and remains ready to extend humanitarian aid.
“Our humanitarian partners and experts continue to assess the situation and Flag of Canada stands ready to assist as appropriate,” it said.
The United Nations has mobilized its humanitarian teams to support government response in municipalities affected by the typhoon.
“We have not waited for the landfall of this typhoon to mobilize our humanitarian teams and take action,” UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator to the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez twitted Sunday night.
He noted that UN agencies and humanitarian non-government units are already working with relevant government agencies, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), and private sector groups to coordinate relief efforts.
The UN Philippines said PRC’s emergency response teams are supporting authorities in search and rescue efforts and in providing immediate relief to hard-hit communities.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is coordinating humanitarian sectors and is mapping humanitarian and development partners in affected areas.
Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration is providing support to authorities in the management of evacuation centers.
The World Food Program has also received a request for logistical support to food distributions.
During the Laging Handa briefing on Monday morning, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad said 10 people were killed, one was injured, and several still missing as “Rolly” battered the Bicol Region.
