Survivors Of Philippine Mudslides Receive Help From Save The Children

By Scott McLean

Save the Children is assisting survivors of the February 17 mudslides on Leyte Island, the Philippines, according to a press release issued by the organization.

The village of Guinsaugon was devastated by the mudslides resulting from heavy rains, which have caused residents of 11 other villages to be evacuated.

In cooperation with government officials and humanitarian organizations, Save the Children is assisting to provide food, water, and clothing at evacuation centers, the organization stated.

There are 84 confirmed casualties, nearly 1,000 people missing, all presumed dead, the Philippine Information Agency told Planet New Views by telephone Tuesday evening. Two days ago the search was called off due to bad weather conditions, a PIA staff member commented.

“Continued rains pose a challenge to the relief efforts,” said Rudy von Bernuth, who heads Save the Children USA’s emergency response efforts, “but the distribution of essential items for children and families affected by this disaster continues. We also remain vigilant of the risk to neighboring villages, where further mudslides or floods are possible due to the very heavy rains.”

The organization reports that children represent about one-third of the 2,100 people housed in evacuation centers.

For more information on the rescue effort, visit www.savethechildren.com.