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Several weeks after the typhoon in the Philippines

Marie Rose works in the Philippines so that people affected by the typhoon can be given an opportunity. We give you here her testimony from Cebú.

A lot of people have advised us to report on what we are doing to alleviate the situation of the victims of typhoon Yolanda. Following their advice, we have set up a web page on disaster relief operations at the address (www.fptiphilippines.org) of the Fundación para la Formación Profesional, Inc (Foundation for Professional Training, Inc – FPTI). It is a simple website where we have uploaded our latest news, photos, testimonies and letters of gratitude to donors. There is also a video of FPTI president, Judi Cam.

We have travelled through various affected zones. 90% of these families have lost their homes, but have already started to search among the debris to build a simple provisional shelter, bearing in mind the very rainy and humid weather. Last 17 November, relief items were sent from Manila to Tacloban and Palo, Leyte. Also, Judi, president of our foundation, travelled with several women from Manila to Tacloban, taking with them three large containers of relief items for 500 families from there and Palo. Another group travelled to Baybay, Leyte, taking with them four vehicles filled with essential relief items for more than 1,000 families. Some people from Samar and the south of Leyte went to the dock in Baybay to meet the group to receive the aid. They were very pleased and thankful for all the help.

These people’s optimism is incredible. As an example, an American journalist was walking through the streets of Tacloban a few days after the typhoon and saw young children laughing and playing. He was so astounded to see this that he asked them why they were laughing despite the appalling situation they were in, hungry, thirsty and threadbare. One child simply answered: Sir, laughter is the best medicine”.

Everyone here knows that what we are doing wouldn’t be possible without your help. We would also like to thank those who have talked to potential donors to change this situation. We have a lot of work to do since most of the families we know no longer have a home. Many local private institutions and individuals are helping in the relief operations.

Thank you from the heart.

You can make your contribution stating “Emergency in the Philippines” to the following bank account number: 0049 5232 87 2710029050.