US, Canada aid victims of Odette
THE United State and Canada are sending aid to victims of Super Typhoon Odette in Visayas and Mindanao.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Tuesday that Canada will provide about P120 million (Can $3 million) in immediate financial assistance to support humanitarian relief operations in the Philippines, following Super Typhoon Odette.
“My heart goes out to the people of the Philippines, whose lives have been forever changed by last week’s super typhoon. Canadians are sending our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones – and we’ll keep everyone affected in our thoughts during this challenging time,” he said via Twitter.
The Prime Minister continued, “In response to this natural disaster, Canada is providing financial assistance – including through the Red Cross, which will help address immediate needs on the ground, such as water and sanitation. In the days and weeks ahead, we’ll continue to help those who need it most.”
International Development Minister Harjit Sajjan stated that “Canada will commit up to $3 million Canadian dollars (approximately P120 million) to immediate relief efforts, of which $500,000 (approx. PhP 20 million) will be provided to the Red Cross.
“Canada will always do our part to help in times of need. After a devastating typhoon, Global Affairs Canada will help our friends in the Philippines with up to $3M in assistance, including $500,000 for the urgent Red Cross response.”
Meanwhile, United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing Php10 million ($200,000) in immediate assistance to support communities devastated by Typhoon Odette (international name Super Typhoon Rai).
To assist the Philippine government’s relief efforts, USAID is partnering with Action Against Hunger to provide food, water, hygiene supplies, and other relief items to people affected by the typhoon in Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands.
This initial USAID assistance will help restore water supply services and sanitation facilities, as well as promote hygiene practices to keep people safe and healthy.
U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) ad interim Heather Variava extended her deepest sympathies to those affected by Typhoon Odette and assured Filipinos of the United States’ ongoing commitment to providing assistance.
“The United States is providing P10 million in immediate support, including food and shelter for communities affected by Typhoon Odette,” CDA Variava said. “We are committed to working alongside our friends and partners to provide emergency supplies and recovery assistance.”
