FAMILIES from two coastal areas in Leyte who were displaced by Tropical Storm Megi, locally known as Agaton, in April have received transitional shelters from the United States government, its embassy in Manila said on Wednesday.
The 167 shelters, provided by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM), will benefit over 900 people from the town of Abuyog and Baybay City, the embassy said.
“Recognizing the close family ties and the strong bonds within communities, my wish this holiday season is that these shelters will bring your family and communities together again in a safer environment,” USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn said.
“The United States is proud to stand with you and your communities to rebuild and recover from the devastating loss caused by this storm,” he added.
Abuyog and Baybay were among the areas most heavily affected by Tropical Storm Megi, where more than 187 people died and over 16,700 families lost their homes and livelihood.
USAID has partnered with IOM to help over 12,000 people by improving access to safer living spaces, working with local authorities to identify relocation sites, and providing flexible shelter packages.
The US government also supported the repair of water systems and sanitation facilities as well as the distribution of hygiene supplies and water treatment devices to the most vulnerable households.
To date, USAID’s typhoon assistance to the Philippines amounts to P1.6 billion, making the US government the country’s largest humanitarian donor, according to the embassy. — Alyssa Nicole O. Tan