In coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine Air Force, WFP immediately dispatched 3 tons of high-energy biscuits to the affected areas to assist 7,800 of the most vulnerable people who cannot easily cook food. In addition, WFP has already mobilized and delivered key items needed for the relief operation, including water tanks and a mobile storage tent.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and displacement as a result of the storm and flash floods,” says WFP Country Director and Representative Stephen L. Anderson. “We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Filipino people who have suffered from the floods, lost family members or friends.”
The Government has specifically requested WFP emergency food and non-food items – such as blankets, water tanks, tarpaulins and tents – for over 74,000 people in the areas of Cagayan de Oro City, El Salvador City and Kinoguitan of Misamis Oriental, and Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, as well as logistics support to help transport government relief items to affected communities in Northern Mindanao.
Specific WFP support will be determined by the results of ongoing joint assessments with the government, UN and other humanitarian agencies.
“WFP staff is working around the clock to support people in these communities – many who have lost everything”
Since 2006, WFP has had two offices with 70 staff in Cotabato City and Iligan City
WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide. Each year, on average, WFP feeds more than 90 million people in more than 70 countries. (RVC/PIA9-ZBST)