10,000 Feared Dead in Philippines

November 10, 2013

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Philippines Death Toll in Typhoon Aftermath Climbing

OTTAWA – The death toll in the Philippines could exceed 10,000 people. Across Canada many Filipino Canadians are seeking information about their family and friends. Across the country telephone and Internet service is out. Getting information out, and getting humanitarian aid is right now is difficult.

Social networks like Facebook, and email are common communications tools for many people who want to keep in touch.

Canada has offered in $5 million in aid to help immediate humanitarian efforts.

Prime Minister Harper Statement

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on Typhoon Haiyan, which first hit the Philippines on November 8th:

“On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I extend our deepest sympathies to those who have lost loved ones as a result of Typhoon Haiyan. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this devastating natural disaster. Canada is standing by to offer any possible assistance to the Philippines in responding to this emergency. Our officials in Ottawa and at our mission in Manila continue to closely monitor the situation, and remain in contact with relevant local officials and humanitarian partners.

“I am keenly aware of all the Filipino-Canadians anxiously waiting for news on their loved ones.

“Relatives and friends seeking information on Canadian citizens believed to be in the affected areas should contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 1-800-387-3124 or 613-996-8885. They may also send an email to sos@international.gc.ca.”

Donate to Help

On Friday, the Canadian Red Cross mobilized efforts to help.

The Canadian Red Cross is now accepting donations to help those affected by Typhoon Haiyan, the strongest typhoon to hit the Philippines this year. The humanitarian impact of Haiyan threatens to be colossal.

Canadians wishing to help those affected by this storm are encouraged to make a financial donation online at www.redcross.ca, at their local Red Cross office or by calling 1-800-418-1111. Please earmark donations “Typhoon Haiyan”. Funds will be used to support Red Cross efforts in all countries affected by the storm.

The typhoon has already caused wide-spread damage, including landslides and flooding. Among the people affected are those who were left homeless by an earthquake in mid-October.

The Philippine Red Cross has been working closely with local disaster authorities in supporting pre-emptive evacuations. More than 125,000 families were evacuated to safer shelters ahead of Haiyan’s landfall. Red Cross volunteers and staff have disseminated early warning messages and safety tips through the network of Philippine Red Cross branches in areas along the typhoon’s path. Emergency responders and volunteers have been mobilized to support rescue efforts by authorities.