Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami) dumped torrential rain in northwestern Philippines on October 22nd, triggering widespread flooding and landslides. The 11th and one of the deadliest typhoons to hit the archipelago this year killed more than 100 people, with nearly a million individuals displaced. Planet Water’s response was focused in Camarines Sur Province, where the massive flood waters reached as high as the rooftops of some homes.
“I was nearly swept away by the strong current. Our house was completely destroyed because it was filled with floodwater and lashed by heavy rain. My family had to flee into an evacuation center”. Marieta Quijado, Villager
Providing Relief
After coordinating with the local authorities and identifying suitable deployment locations with an urgent demand for drinking water, the Planet Water Foundation team headed to the impacted area. With access roads submerged under flood water or blanketed with thick mud, it took 19 hours of travel for the Planet Water team to get into the impacted region.
Upon arrival, AquaBlock emergency water filtration systems were quickly deployed in Camaligan and Canaman, Camarines Sur to provide safe water access to community members who had been seriously impacted by Tropical Storm Kristine.
The AquaBlocks were deployed in the vicinity of bore wells, with water pulled from the wells and brought through the AquaBlock’s filtration process to produce clean, safe drinking water. After testing of the water quality by Planet Water technicians, the filtered water was made available to the community for use. Community leaders were then trained to ensure proper maintenance and regular cleaning of the system.
The lack of clean, safe water during flooding makes the survivors, especially those already suffering from malnutrition and weakened immune systems, even more susceptible to waterborne illnesses. But the risk can be mitigated with the help of Planet Water Foundation’s AquaBlock Emergency Water Solution. This advanced water filtration system has a four-stage water purification system and produces 700 liters of safe drinking water per hour.
“Making both ends meet has been difficult, but it is much harder now because of the impact of the typhoon. Purchasing clean water for my two young children is expensive for me, especially after the devastation. The AquaBlock will greatly benefit our family because it gives a steady supply of safe water.” Zyra Asis, Villager.
For further information, please contact:
John Deotrakul - john@planet-water.org