Pope had different homily for Tacloban Mass

TACLOBAN - Pope Francis' message for typhoon victims in Tacloban on Saturday was very different from the homily he had prepared before the outdoor Mass.

According to a Vatican report, the Pope set aside his prepared homily in English and spoke from his heart in his native Spanish to thousands of victims of typhoon Yolanda who braved wind and rain to take part in the liturgy at the Tacloban airport.

Below is a transcript of the Holy Father's remarks, which were translated on-site by one of the ministers in the sanctuary.

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We have a high priest who is capable of sympathising with our weaknesses. Jesus is like us. Jesus lived like us and is the same us in every respect, except sin because he was not a sinner. But to be more like us he assumed our condition and our sin. He made himself into sin. This is what St Paul tells us. And Jesus always goes before us and when we pass an experience, a cross, he passed there before us. And if today we find ourselves here 14 months afterwards, 14 months precisely after the Typhoon Yolanda hit, it is because we have the security of knowing we will not weaken in our faith because Jesus has been here before us. In his Passion he assumed all our pain. Therefore he is capable of understanding us, as we heard in the first reading.

I’d like to tell you something close to my heart. When I saw from Rome that catastrophe I had to be here. And on those very days I decided to come here. I am here to be with you – a little bit late, but I’m here. I have come to tell you that Jesus is Lord. And he never lets us down. Father, you might say to me, I was let down because I have lost so many things, my house, my livelihood. It’s true if you say that and I respect those sentiments. But Jesus is there, nailed to the cross, and from there he does not let us down. He was consecrated as Lord on that throne and there he experienced all the calamities that we experience. Jesus is Lord. And the Lord from the cross is there for you. In everything the same as us. That is why we have a Lord who cries with us and walks with us in the most difficult moments of life.

So many of you have lost everything. I don’t know what to say to you. But the Lord does know what to say to you. Some of you have lost part of your families. All I can do is keep silence and walk with you all with my silent heart. Many of you have asked the Lord – why lord? And to each of you, to your heart, Christ responds with his heart from the cross. I have no more words for you. Let us look to Christ. He is the lord. He understands us because he underwent all the trials that we, that you, have experienced. And beside the cross was his Mother. We are like a little child in the moments when we have so much pain and no longer understand anything. All we can do is grab hold of her hand firmly and say “Mommy” - like a child does when it is afraid. It is perhaps the only words we can say in difficult times – “Mommy”.

Let us respect a moment of silence together and look to Christ on the cross. He understands us because he endured everything. Let us look to our Mother and, like a little child, let us hold onto her mantle and with a true heart say – “Mother”. In silence, tell your Mother what you feel in your heart. Let us know that we have a Mother, Mary, and a great Brother, Jesus. We are not alone. We also have many brothers who in this moment of catastrophe came to help. And we too, because of this, we feel more like brothers and sisters because we helped each other.

This is what comes from my heart. Forgive me if I have no other words to express myself. Please know that Jesus never lets you down. Know that the tenderness of Mary never lets you down. And holding onto her mantle and with the power that cones from Jesus’ love on the cross, let us move forward and walk together as brothers and sisters in the Lord.

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Below is the prepared text of the Pope's Homily that was no delivered:

Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis
Holy Mass
Tacloban, Airport Area
17 January 2015

What words of consolation we have just heard! Once again, we have been told that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, our Savior, our high priest who brings us mercy, grace and help in all our needs (cf. Heb 4:14-16). He heals our wounds, he forgives our sins, and he calls us, as he did Saint Matthew (cf. Mk 2:14), to be his disciples. Let us praise him for his love, his mercy and his compassion. Let us praise our great God!

I thank the Lord Jesus that we can be together this morning. I have come to be with you, in this city which was ravaged by Typhoon Yolanda fourteen months ago. I bring to you the love of a father, the prayers of the entire Church, the promise that you are not forgotten as you continue to rebuild. Here, the strongest storm ever recorded on earth was overcome by the strongest force in the universe: God’s love. We are here this morning to bear witness to that love, to its power to transform death and destruction into life and community. Christ’s resurrection, which we celebrate at this Mass, is our hope and a reality which we experience even now. We know that the resurrection comes only after the cross, the cross which you have borne with faith, dignity and God-given strength.

We come together above all to pray for those who died, those who are still missing and those who were injured. We lift up to God the souls of the dead, our mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, family, friends and neighbors. We can be confident that, in coming into the presence of God, they have encountered mercy and peace (cf. Heb 4:16). There remains much sadness because of their absence. For you who knew and loved them – and love them still – the pain of losing them is real. But let us look with the eyes of faith to the future. Our sadness is a seed which will one day bear fruit in the joy which our Lord has promised to those who trust in his words: “Blessed are you who mourn, for you will be comforted” (cf. Mt 5:4).
We have also come together this morning to give thanks to God for his help in time of need. God has been your strength in these very difficult months. There has been great loss of life, suffering, and destruction. Yet we are still able to gather and to thank him. We know that he cares for us, that in Jesus his Son, we have a high priest who is able to sympathize with us (cf. Heb 4:15), who suffers with us. God’s com-passion, his suffering with us, gives eternal meaning and value to our struggles. Your desire to thank him for every grace and blessing, even when you have lost so much, is not only a triumph of the resilience and strength of the Filipino people; it is also a sign of God’s goodness, his closeness, his tenderness, his saving power.

We also give thanks to Almighty God for so much that has been done to help, to rebuild, to assist in these months of unprecedented need. I think in the first place of those who welcomed and housed the great number of displaced families, elderly, and youth. How hard it is to flee one’s home and livelihood! We thank those who have taken care of the homeless, the orphaned and the destitute. Priests, and men and women religious, gave as much as they could. To those of you who housed and fed people seeking safety, in churches, convents, rectories, and who continue to assist those still struggling, I thank you. You are a credit to the Church. You are the pride of your nation. I personally thank each one of you. For whatever you did for the least of Christ’s brothers and sisters, you did for him (cf. Mt 25:41).

At this Mass we wish also to thank God for the good men and women who served as rescue and relief workers. We thank him for the many people around the world who generously gave of their time, money and goods. Countries, organizations and individuals across the globe put the needy first; it is an example that should be followed. I ask government leaders, international agencies, benefactors and people of goodwill not to give up. There is much that remains to be done. Though the headlines have changed, the needs continue.

Today’s first reading, from the Letter to the Hebrews, urges us to hold fast in our confession, to persevere in our faith, to draw near with confidence to the throne of God’s grace (cf. Heb 4:16). These words have a special resonance in this place. Amid great suffering you never ceased to confess the victory of the cross, the triumph of God’s love. You have seen the power of that love revealed in the generosity of so many people and in so many small miracles of goodness. But you have also seen, in the profiteering, the looting and the failed responses to this great human drama, so many tragic signs of the evil from which Christ came to save us. Let us pray that this, too, will lead us to greater trust in the power of God’s grace to overcome sin and selfishness. Let us pray in particular that it will make everyone more sensitive to the cry of our brothers and sisters in need. Let us pray that it will lead to a rejection of all forms of injustice and corruption which, by stealing from the poor, poison the very roots of society.

Dear brothers and sisters, throughout this ordeal you have felt the grace of God in a special way through the presence and loving care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Perpetual Help. She is our Mother. May she help you to persevere in faith and hope, and to reach out to all in need. And with Saints Lorenzo Ruiz and Pedro Calungsod and all the saints, may she continue to implore God’s mercy and loving compassion for this country, and for all the beloved Filipino people. Amen

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

David Beckham donates clothes for 'Yolanda' victims

MANILA - Celebrity couple David and Victoria Beckham donated 20 boxes of designer clothes and shoes to the British Red Cross in London to help raise funds for the victims of typhoon 'Yolanda.'

The collection reportedly included suits and shoes estimated to be worth at around £800 or P56,000 each.

Victoria Beckham, formerly known as Posh Spice of the "Spice Girls," encouraged more people to do the same.

"Everyone has something in their closet they were holding on to - a dress, suit, or pair of shoes they thought they might wear again," she said.

"Dig them out, bag them up, drop them off and give someone else the chance to buy them, raising much-needed funds for the Red Cross aid effort."

Earlier this month, other British celebrities, led by boy band One Direction, held a telethon on London's iconic BT Tower to answer the "Typhoon Appeal" of UK's Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC).

And according to the official Facebook page of the DEC, as of Thursday, the umbrella charity organization already raised more than £55 million or around P3.8 billion for those affected by the super typhoon.

“Survivors of the disaster desperately need a huge amount of help both now and in the months to come, so this money will literally support people to rebuild their lives,” said DEC Chief Executive, Saleh Saeed in the Facebook post.

As of November 21, the death toll from Yolanda stands at 4,011, while 1,602 remain missing, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

The NDRRMC said at least 2.1 million families or 9.9 million individuals were affected by '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

US increases Philippine typhoon aid

TACLOBAN - The United States pledged an additional $10 million in aid on Monday to help the Philippines recover in the aftermath of super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

This brings the total US humanitarian aid to more than $37 million.

USAID's Nancy Lindborg during a briefing in Tacloban City airport confirmed the increase.

"President Obama said we were here and that more help was coming so I'm pleased to announce today an additional 10 million dollars that will bring the U.S. commitment to 37 million dollars and this will enable us to continue to move ahead with our help on things like the water system, on the logistics," she said.

"You know, from the perspective of people who have lost everything aid never gets there fast enough, but things moved pretty quickly here. I mean, we had people, supplies prepositioned in front of the storm, we were working with the government, things started flowing on Sunday and Monday," she said.

About 50 U.S. ships and aircraft have been mobilized in the disaster zone, including 10 C-130 transport planes, 12 V-22 Ospreys and 14 Sea Hawk helicopters air-dropping supplies from an aircraft carrier.

As U.S. ships deliver food, water and medicine, they are also delivering goodwill that could ease the way for the United States to strengthen its often-controversial military presence in one of Southeast Asia's most strategic countries.

The Philippines is one of Washington's closest allies in Asia and a crucial partner in President Barack Obama's strategy to rebalance U.S. military forces towards the region to counter the rising influence of China.

The United States sent the nuclear-powered USS George Washington aircraft carrier to lead relief efforts after Typhoon Haiyan killed at least 3,900 people on November 8, leaving many survivors dazed and without food a water for days.

The United States and the Philippines are in the middle of negotiations to increase a rotational presence of U.S. forces in the country, deploying aircraft, ships, supplies and troops for humanitarian and maritime security operations.

The widening military cooperation, that includes the use of local bases for temporary deployment, signals rapidly warming security relations after Manila put an end to U.S. military bases in 1992. Manila later allowed the return of American troops for training and joint exercises. The new agreement is expected to expand these activities.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Golden State Warriors to help in 'Yolanda' relief

MANILA, Philippines – The Golden State Warriors are helping in the relief efforts for the victims of Super Typhoon “Yolanda” (international name: Haiyan) by hosting the first of two Filipino Heritage Nights at the Oracle Arena.

The Warriors, tied for first in the Pacific Division with a 6-3 win-loss record, are holding the first Filipino Heritage Night this season today, when they play the Utah Jazz at home.

The Warriors announced that they are selling a special edition Golden State shirt, which features the team’s logo surrounded by the sun from the Filipino flag, to help raise funds for the typhoon relief efforts.

The Filipino Heritage t-shirt is available at the Oracle Arena as well as at the team’s website. Ten percent of every purchase will support Doctors Without Borders, one of the organizations helping in the relief efforts.

The team also encouraged their fans to donate to Red Cross, which sent representatives to Oracle Arena as well.

It is the sixth consecutive season that the Warriors are celebrating Filipino Heritage Night. A second event will be held on March 7, 2014, in their game against the Atlanta Hawks.

Yesterday, the Los Angeles Lakers donated $150,000 to the Philippine Red Cross to help in the relief efforts. The Miami Heat has also pledged at least $1 million in aid, while the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association donated $250,000 to UNICEF and another $250,000 to World Vision.

Over 3,600 people were killed when Yolanda, one of the strongest typhoons to make landfall, slammed into central Philippines last week.

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

Filipinos in Bahrain rally to help 'Yolanda' victims

MANAMA, Bahrain - Filipinos from all walks of life in the Kingdom of Bahrain are uniting to help the victims of typhoon Yolanda (international codename: Haiyan), the strongest typhoon in the world to ever make a landfall.

A newly-formed group, the United Pinoy Photographers in Bahrain, will conduct a shoot for a cause. The proceeds from the event will be donated to ABS-CBN's Sagip Kapamilya. Models and individuals offered their services for free.

The DHL-Bahrain have extended their help by providing free boxes for relief goods which will be shipped, free of cost, to affected areas, through the Red Cross.

Volunteer players from the Filipino Club Tennis Group are spearheading the collection of relief goods as their simple way of extending assistance to typhoon-hit kababayans.

Members of the Filipino community at the Sacred Heart Church are also accepting donations of relief goods.

The Filipino Club-Bahrain has initiated a donation campaign, providing hotlines for donations. All generated funds will be remitted to Sagip Kapamilya, while relief goods will be forwarded to different legitimate agencies in the Philippines. A regular updated report on the donations will be posted in social networking page of the Filipino Club.

"We are receiving calls and messages from Filipinos and foreigners if it is possible to handover their donations to the Filipino Club. Knowing that we have the social and moral obligations to do so, the club decided to head the donation campaign," said the club's coordinator, Emil Durano.

Pinoy Day Out, an event that will be held on November 22 (Friday) at ‘The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark Bahrain’, has been coordinated by Charms & Senses and in coordination with the Filipino Club-Bahrain and the Fil-Am Association (Bahrain). Part of the discounted entry fee will be donated to the victims of 'Yolanda'.

A group of Pinays is also planning to sell souvenir t-shirts. Proceeds will be donated to the typhoon victims.

"We have seen the sufferings of the victims and their families. All we can do now is to generate funds that can be used to help them. Though our funds might be small from this undertaking, our prayers are so big to make things happen," said Annette Aviles, the groups' representative.

Dabarkadz Group, a group of Filipinos in Bahrain, is celebrating its third year anniversary on November 29 (Friday) with a one-day fun day through different ballgames and Pinoy activities at the Muharraq Club Old Gym.

"We are doing a donation drive ‘Bangon Visayas’ for the benefit of the victims of the recent earthquake and typhoon. Individuals and groups are requested to give their donations during their event," said Rodel Santiago. He added that a Filipino cargo company will be shipping the relief goods free of cost.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Koreans raise P100-M for PH typhoon victims

MANILA, Philippines - South Koreans have raised 2.5 billion won (around P103 million) during broadcasting network KBS' special televised fund-raising event to benefit relief efforts in storm-hit Philippines.

The funds raised by KBS on Thursday's broadcast event will go to the Philippine Red Cross, through the South Korean Red Cross. The South Korean Red Cross' goal is to raise 10 billion won (around P410 million) by December.

Another broadcast network MBC has also staged a special broadcast fundraising event for "Yolanda" victims.

The South Korean government has already pledged $5 million in aid for Philippine relief efforts.

Top South Korean companies such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hyundai Kia Automotive Group have pledged millions of dollars for relief efforts in the Philippines.

Asiana Airlines is also sending some 30,000 ramen noodle packs, 20,000 water bottles and 1,000 airline blankets for the "Yolanda" victims. Other companies such as Hite Jinro and K-Water are sending hundreds of thousands of bottled water.

At the same time, South Korea's National Assembly has passed a resolution expressing sympathy with the victims of typhoon "Yolanda" in the Philippines and calling for support of the Korean government for relief efforts.

Rep. Jasmine Lee, a naturalized Korean who was born in the Philippines, authored the resolution, which was signed by 282 members out of the 300 members of the National Assembly.

On Friday's session, the resolution passed with 191 votes.

"Many countries and organizations are assisting the Philippines and I’m very proud of the fact that Korea is one of those nations. Though huge aid and support are heading toward the country, more help will be needed to rehabilitate the typhoon-devastated regions," Lee told the National Assembly.

Lee recalled how South Korea had once benefited from the help of the global community when it was recovering from the Korean War.

"Practicing love for humanity in a time when the world is suffering from climate change and other disasters is a great opportunity for Korea to raise her status as a non-permanent member of the U.N. Security Council," she added.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Cameron pledges further $48 million aid to Philippines

COLOMBO - Prime Minister David Cameron announced Saturday that Britain was providing a further $48 million to help the relief effort after the devastating typhoon in the Philippines.

"Today I can announce that we are providing a further 30 million pounds ($48 million) to support the United Nations and Red Cross emergency appeal" to help survivors of Typhoon Haiyan, he told reporters.

"We are also deploying an RAF C-130 aircraft to help ensure that aid workers move between worst affected areas and get the aid to those who need it most," Cameron added while attending a Commonwealth summit in Sri Lanka.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

DBP allots add'l P10B for Yolanda victims

MANILA, Philippines - State-run Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) has set aside an additional P10 billion for assistance to local government units and business enterprises affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda.

Through its National Rehabilitation Fund for Calamity Stricken Areas, DBP said the fund will support of the National Government’s efforts to speed up the economic recovery of the calamity-stricken areas in the Visayas.

The facility is intended for the rehabilitation of DBP-financed projects adversely affected by calamities such as those of local and national government agencies.

These funds are also available to existing non-DBP financed projects that will hasten the development of communities and regions adversely affected by the calamities.

“This is an existing facility of the bank that we have implemented, and are now beefing up to help in the reconstruction of the areas damaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda. DBP recognizes the severe loss of businesses and properties, and shall work with existing as well as new clients in the devastated areas,” DBP president and CEO Gil Buenaventura said.

For eligible existing DBP clients/ borrowers, the nature of assistance may be in the form of deferment/ moratorium of payment of loan amortization, restructuring of accounts, additional loan, and condonation of condonable charges.

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

Facebook, Tumblr, iTunes join 'Yolanda' relief efforts

MANILA – Popular online services Facebook, Tumblr and iTunes have joined international relief efforts for the victims of super typhoon “Yolanda” (international name Haiyan).

Facebook’s millions of users are now greeted on their home page by an ad asking them to donate P200 to typhoon-affected victims via the Red Cross Red Crescent global network.

“The full amount of this donation will go to the Red Cross Red Crescent global network response,” read the ad, which appears on top of Facebook’s news feed.

Users of the social networking site may donate via PayPal or through their debit or credit card.

Apple’s media store iTunes has a similar plea for its users to donate to the Red Cross, with its official Twitter account posting a link on where people can send money.

Meanwhile, a note has been uploaded on Tumblr, encouraging its users to donate to the United Nations’ World Food Programme.

The post also features online resources to find loved ones or request rescue.

Thousands of families in Visayas were affected after the onslaught of “Yolanda,” which is said to be the strongest storm to ever make landfall.

Several individuals and organizations here and abroad have been extending their help to the Philippines, whether through sending relief goods or giving monetary aid.

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