US provides PHP13.8M for Philippine disaster relief after habagat and cyclones

The United States has provided PHP13.8 million to assist the Philippines' disaster response efforts following a week of heavy rains from the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) and three tropical cyclones, which have left at least 25 people dead.

At least 3.84 million people have been affected by floods and landslides in Metro Manila, northern and central regions, with 167,000 seeking shelter in evacuation centers.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson expressed concern for those affected by the storms, noting that the funding will support relief operations through the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

The assistance aims to transport food to flood-affected communities in Metro Manila, Northern and Central Luzon, and Calabarzon, facilitated by the US Department of State's Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration.

An embassy interagency team is working closely with the Philippine government and WFP to ensure aid reaches those in need.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported that 25 people have died due to the combined effects of habagat and tropical cyclones Crising, Dante, and Emong.