The death toll of Typhoon Pedring (international name: Nesat) has risen to 43 as of this morning. 44 people were injured and 30 are reported missing. 204,376 individuals remain displaced due to the massive floods caused by the torrential rains of the typhoon, particularly in Northern and Central Luzon. 986,417 persons in 33 provinces across Luzon were affected. 104 bridges and road sections remain impassable nationwide. 51,500 people remain without power. Dams have also been opened as water levels have reached their spilling levels: Ipo, Angat, Ambuklao, Binga, Magat, San Roque. Santiago City, Isabela; Meycauayan City, Obando and Calumpit in Bulacan; Olongapo City, Zambales; Tarlac City, Tarlac; Noveleta in Cavite; Nueva Ecija; Dinalupihan, Bataan; Malabon, Navotas and Marikina in Metro Manila have been declared under state of calamity. Pedring’s estimated damages to agriculture and infrastructure are Php 3.45 Billion. PRC maintains strict 24-hour monitoring of all situations throughout the country, while conducting detailed assessments in close coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has been extremely active in all parts of the nation as we struggle through yet another disaster. Search and rescue teams, volunteers and staff were mobilized extensively. 6x6 trucks, rubber boats, utility vehicles, rescue vans, generators and amphibians were deployed. Mass evacuations were conducted. Evacuation centers in Isabela, Cagayan, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Kalinga, La Union, Quirino, Zambales, Alaminos City, Olongapo, Nueva Vizcaya, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Baguio, Benguet, Pampanga, Valenzuela, Manila, Navotas, Cavite, Albay and Camarines Norte are currently housing 113,262 persons. PRC continues to distribute relief goods and hot meals, setup welfare desks and provide psychosocial support.
As the effects of Pedring still echo throughout the nation, Typhoon Quiel entered Philippine territory yesterday. We are bracing ourselves with the horrifying trail of destruction brought about by typhoons that continue to bombard the Philippines this year.
As we continue to wage this battle against disasters, we are in need of immediate cash assistance to provide ongoing relief and recovery efforts for all affected communities. We are appealing for your support to be able to continue to provide food, non-food items and our services to the most vulnerable in the hardest hit cities and provinces. We appreciate your continued support to the Philippine Red Cross. Thank you.