Millions evacuate as 'Ruby' bears down on PH

TACLOBAN  -- Millions of people in the Philippines began seeking shelter in churches, schools and other makeshift evacuation centers on Friday as a monster typhoon bore down on the disaster-weary nation.

The storm, which would be the strongest to hit the Southeast Asian archipelago this year, is expected to impact more than half the nation including communities devastated by Super Typhoon Haiyan last year.

Authorities said more than 500,000 families, or about 2.5 million people, in the eastern Philippines would be evacuated ahead of Hagupit's expected landfall on Saturday night or Sunday.

"Everyone here is gripped with fear," Rita Villadolid, 39, told AFP as she sat with her family and hundreds of other people inside a sports stadium in Tacloban, one of the cities still yet to recover from Haiyan.

Elsewhere in Tacloban, a coastal city of 220,000 people on the eastern island of Leyte, people began flooding into churches and schools with little more than bags of clothes.

Haiyan, the strongest storm ever recorded on land with winds of 315 kilometers (195 miles) an hour, killed or left missing more than 7,350 people as it tore across the central Philippines last year.

Hagupit was generating winds of 215 kilometers (133 miles) an hour on Friday as it tracked towards the Philippines from the Pacific Ocean.

The US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center on Friday downgraded Hagupit from the maximum super typhoon category to typhoon status.

DIRECT HIT

But this would still make Hagupit the strongest storm to hit the Philippines this year, and it would also bring storm surges more than one storey high to many coastal areas, according to state weather agency Pagasa.

In the eastern region of Bicol alone, the government was aiming to move 500,000 families, about half the local population, into evacuation centers, regional civil defense director Bernardo Alejandro told AFP.

"All resources are being mobilised," Alejandro said, adding evacuations had begun on Friday.

He said local government and military trucks were being deployed to transport people to the shelters.

Bicol is a farming and fishing region slightly to the north of Leyte and other areas that were the worst hit by Haiyan last year.

However Hagupit's weather band was 700 kilometers wide and would affect 55 of the nation's 85 provinces, including Leyte, according to Pagasa.

Metro Manila, the nation's capital with a population of more than 12 million people, could also suffer a direct hit, according to the US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center.

The local Pagasa monitoring agency, which had a slightly different forecast for Hagupit, said the capital would not be directly in the storm's path.

But the various mayors of the capital held an emergency meeting on Friday to begin preparations for expected torrid weather on Monday.

The Philippines is often the first major landmass hit by typhoons and major tropical storms that are created in the Pacific Ocean. It endures about 20 major storms a year, many of them deadly.

The previous strongest storm this year was Rammasun, which killed more than 100 people when it cut across Manila and other parts of the main island of Luzon in July.

The Philippines, a developing nation of 100 million people, has in recent years faced unusually strong storms that scientists have warned are linked to climate change.

More than 1,900 people were left dead or missing in December 2012 after Typhoon Bopha hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, an area that does not normally experience major storms.

In December 2011, 1,268 people were killed when Tropical Storm Washi caused massive flooding in another part of Mindanao.

Haiyan, Bopha and Washi were the world's deadliest storms of the past three years.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Daniel, mom honored as 'Yolanda heroes'

MANILA – Kapamilya actor Daniel Padilla and his mother, former actress Karla Estrada, were among those honored at the “Handumanan: Pasasalamat sa mga Bayani ng Haiyan,” which was held last Friday at the Quezon Memorial Circle.

The recognition was for their efforts in reaching out to the survivors of super typhoon Yolanda when it battered some parts of the country in November last year.

In an interview with “The Buzz” which was aired on Sunday, Padilla said it is overwhelming when other people honor your efforts in helping those affected by the super typhoon.

“Masarap ang pakiramdam. Tumutulong ka na may award ka pa,” he said.

Last June, Padilla and Estrada mounted a free concert in Tacloban to bring happiness to those who were devastated by Yolanda.

“Plinano naming mag-ina 'yung concert para mapasaya namin ang mga kababayan namin and ito lahat galing sa aming dalawa lang talaga. Siyempre mayroong mga tumulong sa atin but this is a free concert para sa mga victims ng Yolanda all over Region 8 na gaganapin natin sa grandstand sa Tacloban City,” Estrada said in a past interview.

Both said they wanted to entertain the people in Tacloban City so they could somehow forget the pain and hardships they are going through.

According to an article by Star Cinema, the Handumanan event “aimed to honor all the good Samaritans on the aftermath of Yolanda.”

The project is part of former Senator Panfilo Lascon’s task as a rehabilitation czar for the Haiyan Disaster Governance Initiative.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Prayers, tears in Philippines one year after super typhoon

TACLOBAN, Philippines - Survivors of the strongest typhoon ever to hit land descended on mass graves Saturday to mark one year since the storm devastated the central Philippines and condemned millions to deeper poverty.

Super Typhoon Haiyan claimed more than 7,350 lives as it swept in off the Pacific Ocean, with its record winds and once-in-a-generation storm surges flattening entire towns.

The typhoon tore across a corridor of islands where about 14 million people lived in farming and fishing communities that were already among the nation's poorest.

The rebuilding effort has been painfully slow for most survivors, with millions poorer and many dangerously exposed to the next big storm as they still live in shanty homes along coastal areas.

In an outpouring of grief, tens of thousands marched to the grave sites under the hot sun on Saturday to offer flowers, light candles and say prayers.

Josephine Crisostomo's three children died during the storm, including her youngest, who would have turned two years old on Sunday.

"I miss my children terribly, especially John Dave who would have celebrated his birthday tomorrow... I miss you, son, I love you so much," Crisostomo, 41, said at one of the mass graves in the outskirts of badly-hit Tacloban city.

Using felt-tip pens, mourners wrote names of those who died on the hundreds of white crosses planted on parched earth in symbolic gestures as the more than 2,000 people buried there had not been identified.

"I am looking for my brother, but his name is not on the list of those buried here," Elena Olendan, 50, told AFP, her eyes welling with tears, as she wandered around the grave site, about the size of six basketball courts.

Olendan had not reported her 60-year-old brother, Antonio, as missing when Haiyan struck. She found a cross on the far end of the mass grave and wrote her brother's name on it.

- National day of prayer -

The Philippines is a mainly Catholic country and many people in the typhoon zones, as well as across the nation, attended special church services.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines declared Saturday a national day of prayer, and church bells across the nation would ring at 6:00 pm to remember those who died or suffered in the storm.

The build-up to the anniversary had focused renewed attention on the pace of the reconstruction effort, with President Benigno Aquino's government criticized by many for a perceived lack of urgency.

Roughly one million people need to be moved away from coastal areas that are deemed vulnerable to storm surges, according to a 160-billion-peso ($3.6-billion) government master plan for rebuilding the typhoon zones.

However those plans have already fallen behind schedule, delayed by problems in finding new land that is safe and suitable for 205,000 new homes.

In a speech at the typhoon-hit town of Guiuan on Friday, Aquino defended the pace of the reconstruction program, saying he was determined to ensure it was carried out correctly rather than rushing.

"Curse me, criticize me but I believe I must do the right thing," Aquino said.

"I am impatient like everyone else but I have to stress that we can't rebuild haphazardly. We have to build back better... let's get it right the first time and the benefits should be permanent."

Aquino also cited international aid agencies as saying post-Haiyan recovery efforts were moving faster compared with programs in Indonesia's Banda Aceh after it was hit by mega-tsunami waves in 2004.

And while millions endure Haiyan-exacerbated poverty, there has been some remarkable progress from a year ago as international aid agencies have pumped hundreds of millions of dollars into the region.

Some of the big successes of the campaign have been the restoration of electricity within a few months, quick replanting of crops and sanitation programs that prevented major outbreaks of killer diseases.

Tacloban again resembles many other chaotic Philippine cities, with traffic jams, busy market stalls and packed shopping malls.

In the countryside, lush green paddies are testament to successful rice planting campaigns that have sustained millions.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Throwback: Atom Araullo remembers Yolanda's wrath

TACLOBAN - ABS-CBN correspondent Atom Araullo was the last reporter to give an update on the weather condition in Tacloban before it was ravaged by super typhoon Yolanda on November 8, 2013.

This is what he saw.

ABS-CBN UMAGANG KAY GANDA, November 7, 2014

Watch the full episode in iWant TV or TFC

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Insurers vow faster claims processing for typhoon victims

MANILA, Philippines – The Insurance Commission and insurers united to expedite the processing of claims for the victims of typhoon “Yolanda.”

Through the program called "Agarang Proseso, Benepisyo ay Sigurado," the Insurance Commission and insurance companies will setup a claims action center in strategic areas like Tacloban, Ormoc and Cebu City.

Insurance Commissioner Emmanuel Dooc said they will ship 40 air-conditioned container vans that will serve as processing centers.

Insurers have committed to making the process very simple and easy for the victims.

MicroEnsure Philippines, for example, has waived documentary requirements for calamity and death claims. They have prepared a master list of policy holders and have started paying out for calamity loans in affected areas even without IDs or application forms.

For death, they are simply requiring testimonial support instead of death certificates.

The Philippine Insurers and Reinsurers, meanwhile, said they have also prepared a master list and will issue an initial payout of P10,000 per policy holder.

Full amount of the claim will then be paid out after minimum requirements are satisfied. This includes being part of the master list, pictures of property, a certificate of title or vehicle registration, and a certification from the barangay where the victim is from, in the absence of an ID.

They also have the following hotlines for the Claims Insurance Center: 09479537954 (Smart), 0927889907 (Globe), 09335316685 (Sun), where the assured can provide his/her name, contact number and insurance company to facilitate the faster processing of requests.

So far, microinsurance providers have already released P83.6 million for non-life claims; P811,000 for death claims and P680,000 for relief assistance.

They have also approved an additional P110 million for release to more than 19,000 beneficiaries which is expected to be released within the first week of December.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Insurance claims of Yolanda victims may be expedited

MANILA, Philippines - The Insurance Commission is urging insurance industry players to expedite the processing and release of insurance claims of typhoon "Yolanda" survivors.

In a statement, the IC called on industry players to process and release payments to the affected insuring public without the necessity of an actual claim filed before them.

The IC is also mulling the possibility of allowing insurance providers to release insurance proceeds to covered “Yolanda” victims without relying on traditional documentary proofs and notices of loss.

There have been discussions on the use of "satellite imaging” and “crisis mapping” as basis for the payment of property insurance proceeds, in lieu of the traditional and actual documentary proof and professional adjustment. If implemented, the processing and release of property insurance claims would be faster.

In the meantime, the IC and the industry have started the "Agarang Proseso, Benepisyo ay Sigurado" program to address the victims' urgent needs.

Agarang Proseso established on-site Claims Action Centers (CAC) at the CLIMBS General Life and Insurance Cooperative CAC in Tacloban City, CLIMBS CAC in Ormoc City and CLIMBS CAC in Cebu City.

Another CAC will also be set up in Tacloban City which will be operational on December 8.

Traditional non-life insurance providers will be deploying personnel to strategic areas in the Visayas this week to further expedite the processing and release of the insurance proceeds to the covered victims.

A CAC in Tacloban City Hall is expected to be launched on December 13.

Also, microinsurance providers have already released substantial amounts of claims for covered fisherfolks, farmers, vendors and members of the marginalized sector in Tacloban, Ormoc, Samar Southern Leyte and Biliran and in other affected areas in the Visayas:

P83,641,400.00 – for non-life claims
P811,000.00 – for death claims
P680,000.00 – for relief assistance

An industry player facilitated the release of insurance claims of at least 8,000 insurance policyholders amounting to P60 million.

Microinsurance providers have also approved P110 million for release to more than 19,000 beneficiaries and claimants in the affected area. The amount will be released this week.

Affected policyholders, planholders, beneficiaries and other concerned persons are advised to visit the Insurance Commission’s website at www.insurance.gov.ph for updates.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Ryan Bang taps Korean, local celebs for 'Yolanda' fundraiser

MANILA – Ryan Bang and two other Korean celebrities in the Philippines have organized a fundraising event for survivors of super typhoon “Yolanda” (international name Haiyan).

Bang, along with television host Grace Lee and choreographer Dasuri Choi are set to hold “Let’s Do More: An All-K Charity Event” this Saturday (November 30) at the Korean restaurant K-Pub BBQ at Bonifacio Global City.

The show will start at 6 p.m., with guests able to enjoy snacks and drinks for a donation of P500.

Bang has also tapped a number of local celebrities as guests on their fundraising event, among them his “It’s Showtime” hosts Karylle, Coleen Garcia and Eruption.



Also expected to grace the event are Zanjoe Marudo, John Prats, Alex Gonzaga, Kean Cipriano, Jerome Ponce, Sunshine Garcia, Aiko Climaco, Jef Gaitan, Kim de Guzman, Boom, Manuel Chua, Jamilla Obispo, Yanna Asistio, Ynna Asistio, Joe Vargas, Shey Bustamante, Tippy Dos Santos, Kim Idol, Le Chazz, AJ Tamiza, CT Guyz, Team Dasuri, Vortexx, Trouble Maker, Gems and Super Simple, among others.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Accenture mobilizes $2-M for 'Yolanda' relief efforts

MANILA, Philippines - Accenture said it has mobilized more than $2 million in cash and pro-bono contributions to support disaster relief and reconstruction efforts in typhoon-hit Philippines.

"Our thoughts remain with our colleagues, their families and the people of the Philippines, as we commit to supporting the rebuilding process," Pierre Nanterme, Accenture Chairman & CEO, said.

Accenture and the Accenture Foundations will donate $1 million to Skills to Succeed strategic partner Plan International. Cash grants will offer support for long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts required to enable communities to rebuild through skills development and economic activity.

Accenture Development Partnerships will also deliver pro-bono consulting services to Plan International during the reconstruction phase, when business and technology expertise offer the greatest impact in areas such as skills building and job training.

Accenture employees around the world have contributed more than $600,000 to the Philippine Red Cross and other charities providing local relief.

Accenture is providing employees in the Philippines with paid volunteering time to support relief operations.

"In the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, we hope to make a sustainable difference to the long-term economic vitality and resilience of individuals, families and communities in the Philippines," Jill Huntley, managing director – Global Corporate Citizenship at Accenture, said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

German Red Cross continues PH relief flights

BERLIN - The German Red Cross has loaded another aid flight for the victims of typhoon "Haiyan" which is expected to start Tuesday from the airport Berlin-Schoenefeld for the Philippines.

The German Red Cross said that the plane is expected to fly directly to the island of Cebu and carries a total of 53 tonnes of cargo, among them supplies for the water and hygienic sustainance for about 20,000 people.

"The need is immense and tremendous. So we will have to continue in bringing in supplies from here as well as from the region," said the head for international cooperation of the German Red Cross, Christof Johnen. "And that is on the water and sanitation sector but as well of course shelter is an immense problem and a tremendous challenge there. As well as food and basic health services that have to be provided."

Johnen said that the co-ordination is going rather well. But what remains a major challenge is the logistics. "You have a number of islands, although roads are cleared, more and more. Accessing really the people in remote areas remains a challenge and that will be our focus for the next weeks."

The cargo is complimented by two so called inter-agency emergency health kits, which includes basic medicines and other medical supplies for roughly 60,000 people for a month, said Johnen.

In addition to the supplies, the cargo plane will also carry building materials for a co-ordination centre as well as three Red Cross off-road vehicles.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Dutch fundraising drive hits P1-B for Yolanda survivors

HOLLAND - A national fundraising campaign was initiated by Dutch aid organizations and media outlets to help the victims of typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan).

On Monday morning, the telephone lines at the Institute for Sound and Images in Hilversum, the Netherlands opened for receiving donations via Giro555, a national fundraising campaign launched by Stichting Samenwerkend Hulporganisaties Sho, a cooperation of aid agencies in the Netherlands.

They partnered with Dutch media outlets including Public Omroep, SBS6 and RTL to raise funds to help the survivors of typhoon Yolanda.

A national fund raising drive is usually done whenever a big tragedy happens like the earthquake in Haiti and the tsunami in Southeast Asia.

"It is really a splendid day of getting together and feeling that we are connected in humanity here and we are connected to the Philippines, and [the] Philippines is connected to us here in the Netherlands and that's a tremendous feeling even though the situation is really horrendous," said Henri van Eeghen, fundraising chairman.

Dutch celebrities, media personalities, singers, beauty queens and regular Dutch people joined the fundraising drive that lasted until midnight. Some auctioned their belongings, others volunteered in answering the phones. Other also performed for the volunteers while Filipinos distributed home-cooked Pinoy meals to them.

"I am very shocked about what has happened and we get so many stories via social media and of course I had to participate because I really want to help the Filipinos. Everyone sees the Filipino people as very strong and happy people, even when they are down, even when something like this happens, people can still smile and it's very beautiful to see and they are a great example for people around the world," said Cystine Carreon.




TV host Britt Dekker visited in the Philippines last year. She was shocked and touched upon watching the wreckage brought by the typhoon.

In a translation she said, "I have never cried so hard in any movie than I did when I was watching the news, the images. It was so terrible. We can donate money but we can also give our time and effort."

At the end of the day, Giro555 was able to raise more than 18.5 million euros or more than one billion pesos. This will be donated to nine organizations that are already active in relief operations in rehabilitations in the Philippines, including Oxfam Novib, Terres de Hommes, Icco Kerk in Actie, Save the Children, Red Cross, Care Nederland, Unicef, Cordaid Mensen In Nood and World Vision.

"Some portion of it will go to immediate relief efforts. Some of them will go to actually start building houses, get microfinance going and a number of other things to help people get into their own sustainable situation again where they can start taking care of themselves, have children go to school, have sanitation facilities, hospitals to have running again and so on," said Eeghen.

Filipinos who participated in the event in Hilversum were teary-eyed with the tremendous help that the Dutch people extended.

"Sa ganitong panahon talagang nandyan sila para sa atin. In behalf of the Filipinos living here in Holland, I would like to express my gratitude to the Dutch people, to the Dutch government for the support they had given to us during this dreadful disaster," said Meryl Jansen.

Giro555 will continue to receive donations after the televised fundraising marathon. This is on top of the two million euros already given by the Dutch government, as well as donations from individuals and groups who are continuously rallying for the victims of Yolanda.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Switzerland extends P1-B aid for Yolanda survivors

MANILA - A national fund raising drive by Swiss Solidarity and the Swiss government has so far generated more than P1-billion for the survivors of super typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines.

"To fund the Swiss relief efforts, the Swiss Federal Government released P281 million (CHF 6
million) in immediate disaster assistance. A national fund raising drive undertaken by “Swiss Solidarity”  to help Philippine disaster victims netted P760 million (CHF 16.1 million) by Monday evening, 18 November 2013, bringing the combined amount mobilized so far by the Swiss government and “Swiss Solidarity” alone to more than PHP 1 billion. Individuals, NGOs and companies in Switzerland continue to mobilize funding to assist the typhoon victims," the Embassy of Switzerland in Manila said in a statement.

Switzerland was quick to respond to the disaster by deploying teams of experts to seriously affected areas in Northern Cebu and Western Leyte.

"The experts of the Swiss Humanitarian Assistance Teams were the first foreign aid workers to help the gravely affected populations in Bogo, Daan Bantayan and Bantayan Island in Cebu and in Naval/Biliran and Ormoc in Western Leyte," the embassy said.

Currently, there are 20 professionals, medical doctors and health specialists, water and sanitation engineers, shelter experts and logisticians working round the clock out of their hub in Cebu City.

They continue to provide food and kitchen sets as well as hygiene and shelter-kits, which are procured locally, to tens of thousands of victims.

As of Monday, 21 tons of medical kits, food packs and shelter materials were shipped by air from Switzerland and distributed in coordination with local authorities to the needy in the disaster area.

Some of the Swiss government funds will be allocated to Switzerland’s international partner agencies.

Meanwhile, the embassy dispatched to Cebu and Leyte its consular personnel to assists Swiss citizens affected by the typhoon.

Swiss citizens in the affected areas are requested to contact the Swiss Embassy at 0917 528 5460.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

One Direction leads UK telethon for 'Yolanda' victims

MANILA -- British stars led by One Direction held a telethon Monday in London's iconic BT Tower to help UK's Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) raise funds for the survivors of super typhoon "Yolanda" in the Philippines.

Members of the boy band officially kicked off the three-hour telethon on Twitter asking their fans to answer the DEC Typhoon Appeal.

"The pictures I have seen of little children in-between the ruins made my heart break. All of us in the band are shocked by how many people need help, so we’re asking the public to continue to be as generous as they possibly can,” One Direction member Liam Payne said, according to a report on the website Look to the Stars.

Alan Rickman, best known for playing Severus Snape in the "Harry Potter" film series, joined celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and a host of other UK stars in answering calls at the fundraising event.

"Families have been through the terrifying experience of the typhoon and now many face a daily struggle just to stay alive. I’m looking forward to answering the phones to the generous British public as we all do what we can to help,” Oliver said.

According to the official Facebook page of the DEC, the umbrella organization has now raised £39 million (or around P2.7 billion) for the victims of the typhoon.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

How 'Indays' in Qatar are raising funds for PH typhoon victims

MANILA – A group of Filipino household service workers in Doha, Qatar extended help in their own small way for kababayans whose lives will never be the same again after super typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) struck central Philippines on November 8.

And their help came in the form of an empty tissue box.

Instead of just throwing it away, Jovelyn Bayubay-Revilla found another use for it. This time, as donation box dedicated to kababayans greatly affected by the typhoon.

"Maraming nag-donate sa Kleenex box namin. May Malaysian, Lebanese, Indonesian, Indian at Pilipino din," said Revilla.

Although miles away from home, Revilla and some 30 members of the charity group she formed called, “Handog Ngiti ng mga Inday”, made sure that their chores would include passing on the tissue box to families living inside their compound.

It was the photos and television footage of destruction and despair that continue to emerge from the aftermath of Yolanda that urged Revilla to initiate the donation drive.

"Nang mabalitaan ko si Yolanda, lagi ako sa CNN kahit naka-vacuum ako, open ko lang ang tv. Napaluha ako sa nangyari at gusto ko na makatulong, kaya pumasok sa isip ko ang mangatok dito sa mga villa ng Ezdan Compound kaya kinuha ko ang Kleenex box at nilagyan ng HELP PHILIPPINES YOLANDA VICTIM!” Revilla said.

Revilla said she and her fellow OFWs got the blessing and support from their employers and wards to conduct the donation drive.

“Tuwing hapon o gabi kumakatok kami sa mga pinto ng mga dayuhan. At dahil positibo kami na may pinto na bubukas at hahandugan ng kaunting barya ang box namin ay isang malaking pasasalamat na sa maliit na halaga malaking tulong na sa kapwa Pilipino na biktima ni Yolanda,” she said.

The donation box yielded 2,481 Riyals or P29,523. The money was already remitted to trusted friends in the Philippines who will buy, pack, and distribute relief goods to typhoon-hit residents of Leyte.

Revilla said many of their friends who are from typhoon-hit provinces were affected by the calamity. Some have lost their loved ones and homes while others have family members who remain missing until now.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Thai royals send relief goods to PH

MANILA, Philippines - Thailand's royal family is sending relief goods for survivors of super typhoon "Yolanda".

Upon instructions of Her Royal Highness Princess Soamsawali, Dr. Pichit Suvanprakorn, vice chairman of the Princess Pa Foundation, presented the royally-sponsored relief goods at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs last Friday.

The relief items consisted of mechanical and powdered water purifiers, tents, bags filled with ready-to-eat meals, powdered milk bottles, pre-fabricated roofing materials made out of recycled milk cartons, and personal-size toiletries for the typhoon victims.

The mechanical water purifiers are portable and can be operated by foot pump if there is no electricity. The powdered water purifiers are mixed with water drawn from wells and even rivers to make it safe for drinking.

The relief items will be flown to Mactan Airbase by two Royal Thai Air Force C-130 aircraft. The first plane is scheduled to arrive today (November 18), and the second is expected to arrive on November 20.

Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Jocelyn Batoon-Garcia thanked the Royal Family, the Princess Pa Foundation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Thai Air Force for the donation.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

NFL player carries PH flag to honor 'Yolanda' victims

Seattle Seahawks receiver Doug Baldwin carried the Philippine flag onto Century Link Field on Sunday to honor the victims of super typhoon Yolanda.

According to the Seattle Times, Baldwin has family members living in the Philippines, including his grandmother.

News reports added that Baldwin’s relatives in the Philippines are okay but this didn't stop him from showing his support by carrying the country’s flag onto the field before Seattle’s win over the Minnesota Vikings.

The photo was posted by the football team on its official Twitter account.

“Please continue supporting #Haiyan relief. @DougBaldwinJr appreciates your generosity. #PinoyPower,” the Seahawks said in a tweet.

Netizens, however, noted that the Philippine flag has the red bar on top, which is used only during times of war.

"This is dope but he held the flag wrong side up! Red on top means the country is at war,” Twitter user Miguel Moldez posted calling the attention of the Seahawks and Baldwin.

“We are fighting the devastation of #Haiyan which has been worse than many war-torn regions of the world,” the Seahawks replied back.

Hours later, Baldwin took to Twitter to apologize for the upside-down flag.

"If I offended anyone of the Philippines, it was not my intent. I only meant to call attention to the plight of the people devastated by typhoon Haiyan. The aftermath of the typhoon can be compared to conditions after a battle during war. Leyte is battling to overcome the ravages of typhoon Haiyan. My blessings and well wishes are with the families impacted by this disaster," he said in a three-part tweet.

The Seahawks, one of the favorites to win this season's Super Bowl, chalked up their 10th win of the National Football League season on Sunday as it thrashed the Vikings, turning a close game into a rout with two fourth quarter interceptions, including one returned 29 yards for a touchdown.

Two interceptions thrown by Minnesota quarterback Christian Ponder helped Seattle score 14 points in less than a minute, as the Seahawks turned a close game early in the fourth quarter into a 41-20 victory over the Vikings.

After linebacker Bobby Wagner intercepted a Ponder pass in Minnesota (2-8) territory, Seattle's Marshawn Lynch scored his third touchdown of the game to give the Seahawks a 31-13 lead with 13:14 remaining.

Forty-four seconds later, Seattle cornerback Walter Thurmond III picked off Ponder and returned it 29 yards for a score as the Seahawks (10-1) wrapped up their sixth victory in a row. – With a report from Reuters

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Expat Filipinos in HK rally for typhoon victims

As the Philippines faces a mounting humanitarian crisis after typhoon Yolanda, Hong Kong's large expatriate Filipino community on Sunday mounted a major fund-raising and relief drive, while criticising the slow distribution of aid to victims.

Thousands of the city's estimated 160,000 Filipinos, many employed as domestic helpers, thronged into churches, downtown parks, sidewalks and malls on their day off in a major show of solidarity with devastated communities back home.

In Singapore, home to over 200,000 Filipinos, there was a flurry of grassroots donations for a nation facing an enormous rebuilding task after the powerful storm that killed 3,974 people and left 1,186 missing.

"We cannot concentrate on our work, especially when we talk to them and they complain that they are so hungry," said a helper named Fatima whose daughter had been involved in a fight for instant noodles in an evacuation center near Boracay.

Anger also mounted towards what some see as a chaotic and slow response by the Philippines authorities to distribute supplies and water to survivors, with the number of people displaced by the catastrophe estimated at 4 million, up from 900,000 late last week.

At one Hong Kong vigil involving 150 Filipinos, some raised banners such as "Distribute relief goods NOW", or "BS Aquino -- where's the relief??", referring to embattled Filipino President Benigno Aquino III, whose popularity has been hit by what some see as weak and stumbling leadership over the disaster.

"It's an understatement when you say it (the relief effort) is slow," said Eman Villanueva, the head of United Filipinos, one of the largest Filipino groups in Hong Kong. "When the response ... of the government (to) reach the affected areas is 4, 5, or 6 days after the typhoon, it's not just slow. It's a crime, it's a crime against the people."

Thousands of Filipinos gathered in Hong Kong's central business district, seeking aid donations and singing and praying for their compatriots. At St. Joseph's Church, one of numerous places of worship for local Filipinos on their single day off every week, tearful crowds lined the pews in a string of masses.

"You can see their feelings, their sorrow and frustration," said Mary Marron, a domestic helper who volunteers at the church each Sunday, referring to several members of her congregation who had lost family or homes in the disaster.

With roads blocked and electricity cut off in the typhoon hit areas, many in Hong Kong have tried desperately to reach loved ones in the Philippines, often in vain.

Teams of volunteers hit the sidewalks outside World-Wide House, a mall crammed with small Filipino shops, newstands, remittance firms and diners, seeking donations and packing boxes of relief supplies to be whisked away by courier firms offering their services for free.

"It makes me feel good, that so many Filipinos come together in one purpose," said Elvera Podador, attending a vigil outside HSBC's soaring glass and steel headquarters nearby. "We are here physically, but in our hearts we are with the people in the Philippines."

Jeffrey Petasales, who started a Facebook group inviting donations, was overwhelmed by the response as he stood on a pavement surrounded by a mound of cardboard boxes.

There was some anger towards the Hong Kong government that said earlier in the week that it would still impose possible economic sanctions within a month against the Philippines over a 2010 hostage crisis that left eight Hong Kong tourists dead.

Lawmakers in the financial hub, however, on Friday voted through an extra $5 million for a disaster relief fund for possible use in the Philippines.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Citi extends help to PH typhoon victims

MANILA, Philippines - Global banking giant Citi has launched several initiatives around the world to support relief efforts in the Philippines.

Citi Asia Pacific CEO Stephen Bird appealed to employees around the region to assist Citi Philippines’ fund raising campaign for the benefit of the Philippine Red Cross.

“Our thoughts are with the people of the Philippines and our focus is on supporting those who have lost families and homes," he said.

Bird also announced a $250,000 disaster relief grant from the Citi Foundation to the American Red Cross Pacific Typhoon Fund for relief and recovery efforts in the affected communities.

Citi’s ASEAN Equities business committed to donate all commissions from equity sales and trading operations in ASEAN on November 13 to the Philippine Red Cross. This raised $500,000 to support the Philippine Red Cross’s longer term rebuilding of affected communities.

"The pledges of support from Citi employees around the world have been simply overwhelming,” said Batara Sianturi, Citi Country Officer for the Philippines.

"Colleagues who have worked in the Philippines or have relatives and friends here are deeply concerned and want to help in any way they can. We have mobilized the collection of relief goods, coordinated volunteer efforts, and continue to campaign for contributions to aid the ongoing rescue work.”

Other initiatives include:

In the U.S., Citi has activated American Red Cross fundraising microsites to facilitate donations from U.S. employees and clients. Citi’s ThankYou Rewards customers can also redeem their points toward a donation to the American Red Cross at www.thankyou.com.

Citi Canada employees are donating to UNICEF; and the donations will be tripled in impact thanks to a match by the Government of Canada and UNICEF corporate supporters.

Citi Philippines is inviting cardholders to donate to relief operations using their Rewards Points, with the Philippine Red Cross as beneficiary (1,000 Rewards Points is equivalent to P100 donation).

Citi Philippines cardholders can also donate via Citi Mobile and send donations through SMS for the benefit of ABS CBN’s Sagip Kapamilya Foundation. To donate, simply text CITIGIVEKAPAMILYA to 2201.

Citi Philippines also announced it is extending anew a debt payment relief to its clients from the affected regions. Citi credit cardholders can request for a 60-day payment extension and late payment charges will also be waived. Special concessions can also be arranged on a case to case basis. Clients may call the 24-hour CitiPhone at 632-995-9999 to avail and for more details.

If you wish to donate to Citi’s Typhoon Yolanda Relief Fund, please see account details below:

Account Name: TYPHOON YOLANDA/HAIYAN RELIEF FUND
US Dollar Account No: 1600125377
Peso Account No: 1400172923
Swift Code: CITIPHMX
Routing Number: 021-0000-89 (CITINY)
Address: Citibank, N.A. 8741 Paseo De Roxas Ave. Makati City, Philippines

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Gas sold at P300/liter in Leyte town?

MANILA – Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla on Friday said he received reports that some fuel vendors are selling gas at P300 per liter in the typhoon-hit town of Jaro in Leyte.

Petilla said he was not able to verify the report, but he said he won’t be surprised if fuel prices are jacked up because one of the gas stations in the area was shut down.

“Hindi natin nahuli ito, pinuntahan natin, wala naman kaming nahuling nagbebenta. Pero ako’y hindi magtataka kung may magbebenta ng P300 per liter because sa area na ‘yan, medyo natigil ang isang gasolinahan sa pag-operate,” he told dzMM.

Retail prices of petroleum products in Metro Manila range from P40 per liter to P52 per liter.

Petilla assured survivors of the typhoon in the Visayas that there is no shortage of fuel, but he admitted that there is difficulty bringing the supply to the affected areas.

“Sa buong Eastern Visayas, wala tayong shortage sa fuel. Sobra-sobra ang gasolina natin sa area na ‘yan, ang problema lang, hindi dumadating sa mga lugar na dapat nilang datnan,” he said.

The energy chief said around 9 to 10 tankers from Manila have arrived in the Visayas, but distribution has been delayed due to security issues.

He said the tankers were stalled in Catbalogan for a day because of these concerns.

However, Petilla said that as soon as military forces were able to provide security, the tankers proceeded to distributing the supply to all affected areas, except Tacloban City.

Petilla explained that gas stations in Tacloban initially refused to operate, not because of security reasons, but because no banks were open.

“Ang problema nila, walang bangko dito sa Leyte na bukas. Kapag ikaw ay may sale sa isang araw, saan mo ilalagay? Hindi mo naman pwede ilagay sa vault, you have to deposit it somewhere,” he said.

On Friday, several banks in Ormoc, a 2-hour drive from Tacloban, resumed operations which allowed a gas station in Palo to open as well.

Fuel rationing

While there is ample supply of fuel, Petilla said distributors are directed to ration the supply.

He said motorcycles are only allowed to purchase 2 liters of gasoline while large vehicles like buses and trucks are allowed to buy up to 20 liters.

“We cannot do non-rationing at this time kasi nga baka abusuhin naman ng mga scrupulous na mga tao,” Petilla said.

“Iniiwasan din natin ang mga tao magbenta ng bote-bote. Kapag pinayagan natin bumili ng isang drum, pupunta ‘yan sa isang lugar at magbebenta,” he added.

Power restored by Christmas

Petilla said authorities are now working double time to restore electricity in the typhoon-hit areas.

He said the Department of Energy is targeting December 24 to restore power in Samar, Leyte, Panay island, Iloilo and Negros.

Petilla clarified, however, that restoring power in the far-flung areas may take longer.

“Ito ‘yung mga bayan, kasi sa mga libliban na barangay, that will take a little bit of effort na makasama sa December 24,” he said.

He added that authorities will try their best to include even the smallest barangays to have power by Christmas.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

US carrier steps up Philippine relief operation

TACLOBAN - A US aircraft carrier sent mercy flights into the typhoon-smashed Philippines Friday, transporting food and supplies desperately needed for survivors still begging for help in wreckage strewn with bodies one week after the disaster.

The USS George Washington is "flying missions off the east coast of Samar", Philippine Air Force spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Okol told AFP, adding that the flights were heading to Guiuan -- the first town to be hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

American soldiers were unloading aid from aircraft at the airport in the devastated city of Tacloban, on central Leyte, where thousands are feared to have died when Yolanda's record winds sent tsunami-like waves tearing across the island.

Aid has been excruciatingly slow to get through to hungry and homeless survivors, with United Nations humanitarian chief Valerie Amos admitting that the delivery of supplies had not been quick enough.

The UN and the Philippines government are in dispute over the extent of the death toll. The world body says 4,460 have been confirmed dead -- but the Philippines' National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council insisted the number remained at 2,360.

The USS George Washington Strike Group -- with 5,000 sailors on the huge carrier alone, and seven other ships -- arrived on Thursday with badly needed equipment, manpower and expertise, giving some hope to survivors that the delivery of aid would speed up.

"I heard there are now American planes," 28-year-old Merly Araneta said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

21 soldiers still missing after 'Yolanda'

MANILA – Twenty-one government soldiers are still unaccounted for following the devastation of typhoon “Yolanda” in the Visayas last week, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff General Emmanuel Bautista said on Friday.

He said two soldiers were killed while three others were injured in the typhoon.

Military facilities in Leyte and Capiz were also destroyed.

The military has deployed some 15,000 military troops in the typhoon-hit areas to help maintain law and order.

An 81-vehicle convoy was also deployed to Tacloban carrying relief goods under the AFP's Bayanihan project.

Bautista, meanwhile, welcomed the call of some left leaning lawmakers for a ceasefire with the New People’s Army (NPA) in the devastated areas, but he said the matter is a political decision, and the AFP can merely recommend it.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com