This December came as a total shock as Typhoon Odette (RAI) devastated parts of Visayas and Mindanao, leaving thousands of people displaced, and with no access to basic utilities.
The country has yet to unveil how much damage the super typhoon has caused. As per Philippine Daily Inquirer, the official death toll is at 258 as of December 23, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said. The government has yet to get in contact with some remote areas affected by the typhoon, so the death toll is still expected to climb.
As the country rebuilds from the losses incurred from the super typhoon, a lot of countries around the world have pledged their donations in order to help the victims of the typhoon. Aside from stating its commitment to donating £750,000 (P50 million) to the International Federation of Red Cross and Philippine Red Cross to aid the typhoon victims, the British government had a heartwarming treat: Queen Elizabeth herself offered some kind words to the victim.
As per the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils, the head of the royal monarchy has expressed her condolences to President Rodrigo Duterte following the devastation caused by Typhoon Odette.
“Today, Her Majesty The Queen sent President Duterte a message offering her condolences and deepest sympathies to all those affected by #OdettePH. The UK (in emoji format) stands in solidarity with the Philippines and Filipino people in the wake of this devastating typhoon,” Beaufils tweeted.
While the palace has not disclosed what exactly Her Royal Highness conveyed in her special message, the fact she took the time to express her sympathies with Filipinos has uplifted the spirits of a lot of people.
Now that morale is low and thousands of people are struggling to have access to the most basic needs such as food, water, and shelter, it’s nice to know that the country has support from the international community. The fact that this natural disaster happened during the holiday season has left so many people feeling less than motivated to have a merry Christmas.
It may be ‘the most wonderful time of the year’ for some people, but unfortunately, this may be a season full of pain and heartbreak for some. That’s why it’s important to donate to typhoon victims if you can, and of course, to treat people with kindness.Â
Art Macky Arquilla
