The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) has sent out rescue teams by road to areas of the archipelago hit by the devastating typhoon Durian (called Reming in the Philippines) to try and bring essential assistance to victims of floods and landslides brought on by the storm’s torrential rains and strong winds. The typhoon has carved a path of destruction across central Philippines, especially in the areas of Catanduanes, Camarines, Sorsogon, Albay, Mindoro, Marinduque, Batangas and Laguna.
According to Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon, at least 388 people are dead, buried in mudslides. Very initial statistics say some 25,000 people have been affected, and 250 are reported missing, but the toll will be considerably higher, as information comes in from regions where communication lines are down and which are inaccessible.
Preliminary reports received from PNRC branch offices indicate priority needs currently include blankets, food and drinking water, construction materials as well as medical teams and body bags.
The PNRC has deployed two assessment teams by road, one to assess damages and needs in the provinces of Sorsogon and Albay, and the other to Camarines Sur and Quezon. They include experts in logistics, relief distribution, water and sanitation and psychosocial support. Additionally, a PNRC ten-member team, equipped with rubber boats, was sent in to flooded areas to staff a first aid station and conduct rescue operations.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which is closely monitoring the situation, is deploying two disaster response and assessment teams to support the PNRC emergency operation.
It has also released 100,000 Swiss francs (US$ 83,300/euro63,000) from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund to support the Philippine Red Cross in initial rescue, assessment and relief distribution activities.
Durian is the fourth typhoon to wreak havoc in the Philippines since September 27.