MANILA, Philippines — Typhoon “KristinePH” has caused serious problems in the Philippines, leading to 10 reported deaths, according to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Thursday.
The storm has caused severe flooding in many parts of Luzon, especially in the Bicol Region, which has seen the most damage.
“Our latest count shows 10 fatalities,” said OCD spokesman Director Edgar Posadas during a briefing in Malacañang.
The reported deaths occurred in several locations, including Aringay in La Union, San Andres in Quezon, Albay, Naga City, Bagamanoc and Caramoan in Catanduanes, and Palanas in Masbate. These reports are still being checked for accuracy.
Posadas also mentioned that the military is ready to help with rescue and relief efforts. The military’s aircraft are on standby at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City and in Cebu, ready to fly as soon as the weather improves.
Additional support is coming to the Bicol region from the Southern Luzon Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, along with other military units from Eastern Visayas.
“I believe these resources will be very helpful. Once the weather clears and the floods go down, we can focus on providing more assistance,” Posadas added.
The government, through the Department of National Defense, has also asked for help from Southeast Asian countries like Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei to bring in more supplies to the affected areas, especially where roads are blocked.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro is working with these countries to arrange the use of their aircraft to help deliver goods. “We are currently handling the necessary paperwork, and once everything is ready, we will announce when the aid will start arriving,” Posadas said.
