Australia provides PhP20 million in humanitarian relief to the Philippines

27th June 2008

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has written to President Arroyo to convey the condolences of the Australian Government and people for the tragic loss of life and property caused by Typhoon Frank. The Prime Minister noted that “the thoughts of all Australians, and particularly our Filipino community, are with you and all those affected by this terrible disaster.” The Prime Minister underlined these sentiments with an initial financial contribution of PhP20 million (A$500,000) from the Australian Government towards humanitarian assistance for the typhoon’s victims.

“The funds will be made available to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) to assist with relief operations, including setting up shelters, emergency support for drinking water and other non-food, clothing and related emergency items,” Australian Ambassador Rod Smith said today after meeting the head of the PNRC, Senator Richard Gordon. “Australia is consulting with the PNRC and the National Disaster Coordinating Council on ways Australia can assist with this daunting relief effort. An Embassy officer has been deployed to the Western Visayas to undertake an assessment of further needs.”

In response to a number of natural disasters since 2006, Australia has provided almost Php100 million (A$2.5 million) in humanitarian and emergency assistance to the Philippines. Recognising that the country is vulnerable to natural disasters, Australia, through its international development agency (AusAID), is working with the PNRC, the United Nations Development Program and the National Disaster Coordinating Council to strengthen community-based disaster management and hazards mapping.

Australia is a long standing development partner of the Philippines and the second largest bilateral grant aid donor. This year the Australian Government will provide development assistance totalling over PhP 4 billion, focusing on the key pillars of economic growth, basic education, and national stability and human security.

For more information contact:
AusAID Public Affairs Officer, Jing Damaso
Tel. No.: (63 2) 757 8297; Fax: (63 2) 757 8265;
E-mail: [email protected]