MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Dec. 19, 2011) – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has donated 3 tons of high-energy biscuits to areas battered by tropical storm Washi in northern Mindanao.
It said the biscuits would be sent to the most vulnerable people who cannot easily cook food. In addition, WFP said it has already mobilized and delivered key items needed for the relief operation, including water tanks and a mobile storage tent.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and displacement
as a result of the storm and flash floods,” WFP Country Director
and Representative Stephen Anderson said in a statement sent to the Mindanao Examiner.
“We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Filipino people who have suffered from the floods, lost family members or friends,” he said.
Manila has specifically requested WFP emergency food and non-food items such as blankets, water tanks, tarpaulins and tents for over 74,000 people in the areas of Cagayan de Oro City, El Salvador City and Kinoguitan of Misamis Oriental, and Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, as well as logistics support to help transport government relief items to affected communities in Northern Mindanao.
Specific WFP support will be determined by the results of ongoing joint assessments with the government, UN and other humanitarian agencies, Anderson said.
“WFP staff is working around the clock to support people in these communities – many who have lost everything,” Anderson said. “Our swift response to support the Government’s relief effort has been helped by the fact that we have existing operations in Central Mindanao focusing on populations who have been affected by conflict and natural disasters.”
Since 2006, WFP has had two offices with 70 staff in Cotabato City and Iligan City.
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