Philippines families face clean water crisis

Families devastated by Typhoon Washi in the Philippines are facing a growing struggle to find clean water for their children.

Officials say almost 70 per cent of Cagayan de Oro City has no supply after major pipelines were damaged by the flash floods. The problem is set to continue for more than a month.

The mother-of-four said: “We can’t get water anywhere. My three-year old son has been complaining because it’s hot at the evacuation centres and he wants to take a bath. But it’s difficult.

“We’re poor plus we are displaced by the flood so we couldn’t provide our needs anymore. We’re only dependent on the food and water ration that are given to us.

The local government is providing gallons of water to affected families but can’t keep up with demand.

World Vision is providing food, water and relief items to around 10,000 families.

John Salva, World Vision Response Manager, said: “People are walking in the streets with no shoes, their clothes muddied, carrying containers trying to find sources of water.

“World Vision is closely coordinating with the local government and other nongovernment organisations on how to work together to respond to these immediate needs.

World Vision UK is giving funds to the Philippines through our General Emergencies Fund that our supporters generously provide. The money is for situations just like this, where a disaster requires funding to help provide immediate supplies such as blankets and fresh drinking water to children and families who are suffering the most.

19 December 2011