America Steps In: $1-M Relief Fund for Filipinos Affected by Typhoon Tino and Earthquakes
TYPHOON – As the Philippines reels from back-to-back natural disasters, the U.S. government has pledged $1 million in aid to help deliver life-saving assistance to the hardest-hit communities.
The United States has pledged $1 million in emergency assistance to bolster the Philippine government’s ongoing disaster response operations in areas severely affected by Typhoon Tino and the recent series of strong earthquakes in the Southern Philippines.
According to Washington, the aid package will include emergency shelter, logistics support, and access to clean water and sanitation for communities hardest hit by Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi). Many of these areas are still recovering from back-to-back storms and the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu on September 30.
“The United States and the Philippines are not only ironclad allies—we are friends and partners bound by a shared history, common values, and a steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. As millions of Filipinos face the challenges left by these disasters, including the loss of family and loved ones, our rapid response stands as a testament to the depth and resilience of our enduring ties, especially in times of crisis,” the US State Department said in a statement.
“To this end, the United States will provide $1 million in immediate life-saving assistance,” it added.
The Office of Civil Defense reported that Typhoon Tino left at least 188 people dead and 135 others missing across the Southern Philippines. Nearly half a million residents were displaced and are now taking shelter in evacuation centers. In Cebu, 139 fatalities were recorded, mostly due to flash floods triggered by the storm.
In response to the widespread devastation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national emergency on Thursday.
“The United States is committed to supporting Philippine-led efforts, working together to save lives, alleviate suffering, and help communities recover from these disasters,” the State Department said.
As the Philippines braces for another potentially powerful storm, Tropical Cyclone Fung-Wong—locally named Uwan—the US emphasized that its disaster relief operations will continue to be closely coordinated with the Philippine government and local partners “to ensure timely and effective relief for those most in need.”
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