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Philippines battered by new round of storms. Following significant flooding in southern
Mindanao due to tropical storm Sendong, which claimed thousands of lives and left widespread
damage, another low pressure system has brought more rain to the region. As of Thursday, December
29, northern Mindanao and the neighboring Visayas region were hardest hit, with homes
destroyed and bridges and roads rendered impassable. In the Eastern Visayas province of Leyte,
which received record precipitation, a young child lost his life and another was reported
missing. In Cebu province, where 18 communities flooded, the National Disaster Risk Reduction
and Management Council reported that two people had perished, with nearly 14,000 evacuated
and more than 40,000 affected. Rising waters in some areas also worsened as the National
Irrigation Administration opened dams to prevent overflowing. Meanwhile, the military has been
providing assistance in ongoing efforts to rescue stranded residents from rooftops and
other areas, with 80 children on holiday in Mindanao's Davao del Norte province who were
brought to safety on Thursday after being trapped by the floods.
Upon hearing of the initial storm's impact on December 17, Supreme Master Ching Hai had
requested our local Association members to please check with regional governments on
any assistance that might be required. Conveying all her love and prayers, she also asked that
they go if possible to comfort those in need, saying that funds are available for emergency
aid.
We thank the Philippine military and all emergency responders for your kindhearted help to co-citizens
as well as Supreme Master Ching Hai for her loving concern. Our prayers for the protection
of the Philippine people as we strive for a safer tomorrow through our more benevolent
lifestyles as a vegan world.
Supreme Master Ching Hai wants to convey this message of gratitude to all governments, organizations
and relief workers from every corner of the world:
“Thank you, all the international and national help that brings care and necessities to afflicted
victims. Thank you all all the relief workers for taking time and forsaking your own comfort,
even traveling great distance on unfavorable roads and conditions to bring love and assistance
to people in time of need. May Heaven bless you abundantly for your generosity and noble
sacrifice.”