26-7-2024 (SINGAPORE) In a display of international solidarity, the Singapore Red Cross has stepped forward with a generous pledge of US$50,000 (approximately S$67,000) to support relief operations in the Philippines following the devastating impact of Typhoon Gaemi. This timely intervention comes as the Southeast Asian nation grapples with widespread flooding, landslides, and significant loss of life.
Typhoon Gaemi, known locally as Carina, has wreaked havoc across the Philippines, particularly in the densely populated capital region of Manila and its surrounding areas. Despite not making direct landfall, the typhoon’s presence intensified the seasonal monsoon, leading to catastrophic flooding that prompted authorities to declare a state of calamity in a region home to 13 million people.
The impact has been severe, with more than 20 fatalities reported due to floods and landslides. The typhoon’s effects have been far-reaching, forcing the closure of schools and offices, and causing widespread flight cancellations on 24 July.
Mr Benjamin William, Secretary General and CEO of the Singapore Red Cross, emphasised the gravity of the situation: “The intensified rainfall, floods and landslides caused by the tropical cyclone have had a devastating impact on families and communities. We are closely monitoring the situation and are in close communication with the Philippine Red Cross to ensure that our contribution provides the best support to the affected communities.”
The scale of displacement is staggering, with the Singapore Red Cross reporting that over 866,000 individuals have been forced to evacuate their homes. Many are now facing dire circumstances, left without access to water, electricity, and other basic services.
In response to this crisis, the Philippine Red Cross has mobilised its Emergency Response Unit to conduct crucial search and rescue missions in flooded areas. Additionally, they have established welfare desks in evacuation centres to provide essential support to those displaced.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Philippine Red Cross and its local chapters remain on high alert, ready to expand relief operations across the country as needed.
The impact of Typhoon Gaemi has not been limited to the Philippines. After battering the island nation and Taiwan, the storm moved on to lash towns in China’s coastal Fujian province. Although it has since been downgraded to a tropical storm due to decreased wind speeds, its effects remain significant. Reports from China’s official Xinhua news agency indicate that nearly 630,000 people in Fujian have been affected, with almost half requiring relocation.
