The Philippines is used to tropical storms and typhoons, but this year's preparation and response efforts have been hampered by the spread of coronavirus.
Within a fortnight, the people of the Philippines have been hit with two record-breaking typhoons that have caused widespread destruction. Our partners are already on the ground, helping families who have been devastated.
Last week, Typhoon Vamco – one of the strongest storms in the world this year - made landfall in the Philippines, submerging entire towns and villages in the Cayagan valley, and leaving flooding and rain-induced landslides in its wake.
So far, 67 people have been killed and dozens are missing, according to the country’s national disaster management agency. Thousands of people – many stranded on rooftops - were rescued and evacuated.
Typhoon Vamco - which has damaged electricity and water supplies, transport links and crops - comes barely a fortnight after Super Typhoon Goni made landfall, the most powerful typhoon seen in the country in seven years.
On Sunday Pope Francis delivered a prayer for the Philippines from St Peter's Square in the Vatican. He said: "I am close in prayer to the people of the Philippines who suffer from the destruction and above all from the floods caused by a strong typhoon."
How is CAFOD responding?
The emergency team of CAFOD's partner, Caritas Philippines (known locally as NASSA), is already on the ground.
They are monitoring the situation, while also continuing with their relief efforts in the areas ravaged by the recent Super Typhoon Goni.
NASSA is coordinating with local faith-based organisations and government departments to best deliver aid to affected families.
Reverend Fr Tony Labiao, Executive Secretary of Caritas Philippines, said:
“The nation is in a quandary. In Cagayan, people – children, the elderly and the vulnerable - are crying out for help. Some have died already.
“It is clear that we cannot do this alone. It is imperative that we leave no one behind. Let us all help each other. Let us save everyone. Every second counts. Every life matters.”
Why are the typhoons making more impact than usual?
The Philippines is used to tropical storms and typhoons, but this year's preparation and response efforts have been hampered by the spread of coronavirus.
Additionally, these two typhoons, which hit at very close proximity, were extremely powerful and damaging, leaving the people of the Philippines little time to recover.
Support our Emergency Response Team
The Emergency Response Team is funded by our loyal regular donors who have chosen to specifically support our emergencies work.
Many humanitarian situations can escalate quickly so having regular donations that we can depend on gives us the flexibility and agility we need to respond and react to emergencies whenever they strike.