The United Nations and the European Union said they would send support to aid those affected by Super Typhoon Rolly that whipped the southeastern portion of Luzon on November 1.
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez said they are ready to help the Philippine government with its national efforts.
“We have not waited for the landfall of this typhoon to mobilize our humanitarian teams and take action,” said Gonzalez in a statement.
“UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs are already working with relevant government departments and offices, Philippine Red Cross, and with private sector groups to coordinate our efforts to support the conduct of rapid needs assessments and swiftly assist the most vulnerable people caught in the typhoon’s destructive path.”
The EU is also committed to assisting in recovery efforts.
“Our solidarity with the Filipino people as typhoon #RollyPh batters the country, particularly Bicol region. The resiliency, strength, and courage of the Filipinos will persevere in these trying times,” it said on Twitter.
UN, EU to send help for Super Typhoon Rolly victims
The latest National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) report said Super Typhoon Rolly affected over two million residents from 12 regions.
The reisidents came from Regions I, II, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, Cordillera Administrative Region and the National Capital Region.
The Office of Civil Defense V reported that Rolly left at least 16 people dead. Of the number, 10 were from Albay (Daraga, 1; Guinobatan, 3; Malinao, 2; Oas, 1; Polangui, 1; Tabaco City, 2) while six were from Catanduanes (Gigmoto, 1; Virac, 4; San Miguel, 1).
According to Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, three people were reported missing. The DILG chief added the number of casualties would be higher if local government units did not enforce preemptive evacuation in the areas on Rolly’s track.
Jalad said a total of 108,555 families or 389,867 people were preemptively evacuated in Regions III, CAR, NCR, CALABARZON, V, and VIII.
Senator Richard Gordon, who also chairs the Philippine Red Cross, said Monday that Tropical Storm Rolly destroyed at least 80% of residences in three Catanduanes towns.