Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Manila (Fides Service) - The death toll caused by typhoon Winnie in northern Philippines continues to rise. Local authorities in Luzon, say that flash floods and landslides left at least 447 persons dead and over 300 more still missing.
Local authorities and the armed forces are on the alert in the affected province of Quezon, some 75 km east of Manila. The centres which suffered most from the torrential rains were Luzon coastal towns of Real, Infanta and General Nakar,.
Last weekend’s typhoon was expected, but most of the damaged was caused by ensuing widespread flooding and landslides. Gales damaged bridges, roads, infrastructure, making rescue operations difficult. Now there is concern for people’s health with the danger of epidemics and the hundreds of families whose homes were destroyed. A week earlier more than 150 persons were killed or went missing as typhoons Muifa and Meirbok, struck Luzon.
The local Church is providing assistance for the homeless but until the roads are cleared. distribution of humanitarian aid is impossible.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 1/12/2004 righe 21 parole 212)
