Israel donates solar powered systems, food items to Odette-hit areas in Cebu, Bohol

Several communities in Cebu and Bohol ravaged by Typhoon Odette can now start lighting their way to rehabilitation with solar powered energy systems donated by Israel.

Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss personally delivered four sets of solar powered energy, rice, food items, and hygiene kits to Talisay Mayor Samsam Gullas and Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia on Wednesday.

“The State of Israel and the people of Israel are saddened by the damages caused to human life, property, and resources by the typhoon,” Fluss said in a statement.

“We would like to express our sympathies and we would want to let the Filipinos know that we stand by them. We are here to assist in every way that we can,” he added.

Fluss was joined by Yoray Ofek, president of the Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, who also handed out sacks of rice to the Talisay local government unit, and by Israeli Honorary Consulate Emily Chioson, who distributed the food items in Cebu.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of Mission Nir Balzam also turned over solar powered energy systems, food packs, and portable water purifiers to affected areas in Bohol.

Bohol Governor Arthur Yap received the relief items in behalf of the residents.

The typhoon flattened houses, cut power lines and left thousands of Cebu and Bohol residents in distress.  They appeal for food and potable water, which are scarce in the affected areas.

Meanwhile, a total of 258 people have been reported dead, 47 were missing, and 568 were injured due to Typhoon Odette, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Thursday.—Richa Noriega/LDF, GMA News