US gives additional P196M to PH for Kristine victims

The United States has provided an additional P196 million or $3.5 million to support the Philippine government’s efforts for victims of Tropical Storm Kristine.   

According to the US Embassy in the Philippines, the assistance seeks to provide clean water, sanitation, shelter, and cash assistance to help residents in the most affected areas of the Bicol Region and Batangas.

The cash aid will also support communities that were affected by subsequent disasters.

“As your friend, partner, and ally, the United States is committed to working with the Philippine government and people as they rebuild and recover,” US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said in a statement.

Kristine, which was inside PAR from October 21 to 25, caused at least 116 fatalities and nearly P6 billion worth of damage to agriculture.

In October, the US government provided P84 million to the Philippines.

The embassy said that the US has provided more than P22 billion or $393.6 million to the country in disaster relief, preparedness, and early recovery since 2010.

PAGASA earlier announced that Severe Tropical Storm Pepito has intensified into a typhoon ahead of its expected landfall. Meanwhile, Typhoon Ofel has weakened into a severe tropical storm. — Joahna Lei Casilao/RSJ, GMA Integrated News