The tropical storm Washi has left a trail of death and destruction in the Philippines as a result of floodings. Denmark has decided to donate DKK 300,000 for an immediate humanitarian response in disaster struck areas. To date the storm has killed over a thousand people and destroyed 28,000 houses.The number of deaths is increasing and the situation is still critical for many in the Philippines. Especially children and women are very vulnerable at this stage.

The activities supported by Denmark will target 1,500 families in the urban areas of Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City where food, water, sanitation materials, mattresses and blankets will be distributed to the victims.

Denmark is cooperating with the Philippine NGO, Citizen’s Disaster Response Center (CDRC), who is already operational in the disaster areas.

Philippine government officials inform that deforestation in watersheds and illegal mining has exacerbated the effects of the heavy rain. The relief aid will thus be followed up by awareness building on disaster reduction.