MANILA (SE): Caritas Philippines called for a show of solidarity with the people severely affected by flooding in Metro Manila and other provinces in the wake of the heavy rains and flooding brought on by Typhoon Gaemi [Carina]. At least 21 people from Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon reportedly died, according to the Inquirer.
“Together, we stand in solidarity with affected families, striving to bring them comfort and hope in the wake of this disaster,” said Caritas Philippines which is collaborating with dioceses to ensure swift aid delivery and has reached out to partners for additional support, according to CBCP News.
“Our thoughts and prayers are especially with those who have lost loved ones. May they find peace and strength during this time of immense grief,” its message said
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the combined effects of Typhoon Gaemi and a tropical depression located over the West Philippine Sea impacted than 1.1 million people or some 245,000 families in many parts of the country.
Cash may be deposited into the following bank accounts:
BPI
Account name: Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc.
Account Number: 4951-0071-08 / 4951-0071-16
Metrobank
Account name: Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc.
Account Number: 632-7-632028322 / 632-7-632028586
BDO
Account name: Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc.
Account Number: 004508034192
UCAN reported that on July 24, residents in the capital Manila woke up to waist-high floodwater, forcing the weather bureau to raise flood warnings to “red.”
Schools and offices were closed in the National Capital Region and the bad weather prompted the cancellation of at least 114 flights, said the Manila International Airport Authority.
Many parish churches in different dioceses have opened their doors to serve as evacuation centers for residents displaced by flooding, CBCP News reported.
In the Diocese of Novaliches in Quezon City, Metro Manila, about 5,000 families sought shelter in the parishes and chapels under its jurisdiction.
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“These churches provide safe shelter and basic necessities for displaced individuals and families,” the diocese said.
In the Diocese of Malolos, Bishop Dennis Villarojo also urged the faithful to stand in solidarity with those affected and displaced by the calamity.
“I encourage all the faithful to provide necessary assistance to those affected by the disaster closest to your area,” Bishop Villarojo said.
Jose Cardinal Advincula, archbishop of Manila, appealed to more than 90 parishes, mission stations, and communities in the archdiocese to launch “a collection in all Masses on Saturday evening and the whole of Sunday” for the flood victim, UCAN reporteds.
“Take away all our fears. Open our eyes and our hearts so that we may respond generously to our brothers and sisters in need,” said Cardinal Advincula in his prayer for the flood victims on July 26.
“My heart and prayers go out to all those affected by the heavy rain and flooding,” he added.
Church authorities opened doors to offer accommodation to the residents who fled their homes due to heavy rains brought on by the typhoon on July 24.
In separate pastoral letters, Bishop Dennis Villarojo of the Diocese of Malolos and Bishop Ruperto Santos of the Diocese of Antipolo urged people to offer prayers and support for the victims in Manila and nearby provinces.
“God has dominion over everything. He has the authority, command, and control over all things created. Therefore, let us respond by putting our faith in God alone,” Bishop Santos said.
In a statement, the president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the government has started distributing financial assistance worth 43.15 million pesos [US$737,042)] to more than 770,000 people in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
However, one climate activist, Aaron Pedrosa, blamed Marcos Jr. for a lack of clear policies on climate disasters, UCAN reported.
“At the State of the National Address, Marcos Jr. boasted of thousands of flood control measures. No less than Nature has contradicted his claims,” Pedrosa, secretary-general of sectoral group Sanlakas, said on July 24.
Marcos Jr. pointed to climate change and trash as the causes of the massive flooding brought by the heavy rains, according to GMA News.
“We have more flood control today but there’s climate change. This is what the effects of climate change are,” he said, adding, “We just had a problem. I hope people will learn. Please don’t simply throw your waste because these can clog our pumps, that’s why they are not that effective.”
The Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment criticised the president’s response, LiCAS News reported. “President Marcos Jr.’s disgusting attempt to deflect responsibility for this disaster is not just a betrayal but criminal negligence, putting countless Filipino lives at risk. The suffering of flood victims is a direct result of his actions,” said Jonila Castro, advocacy officer of the group.
Kalikasan cited recent reclamation projects in Manila Bay as major contributors to obstructing natural drainage systems and removing barriers against storm surges.
Those who want to send help may coordinate with Caritas Philippines via email at alaykapwa@caritas.org.ph or by mobile number at +63 916 694 5278.
Cash donations may be deposited into the following bank accounts:
BPI
Account name: Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc.
Account Number: 4951-0071-08 / 4951-0071-16
Metrobank
Account name: Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc.
Account Number: 632-7-632028322 / 632-7-632028586
BDO
Account name: Caritas Philippines Foundation, Inc.
Account Number: 004508034192
