The United Nations resident coordinator and humanitarian coordinator in the Philippines, Gustavo Gonzalez, on Monday said assessment teams were able to reach areas and communities hardest hit by Odette.
“The reports and images of utter devastation they are sending back are heartbreaking and our deepest sympathies go out to those who lost so much, including loved ones,” Gonzalez said.
“We also commend the professionalism of frontline responders led by government authorities, armed forces, the Red Cross, and others involved in evacuation, search, and rescue efforts in very difficult circumstances and logistics,” he said.
Gonzalez added that the UN was coordinating with the government authorities to provide timely support and address critical gaps and the needs of the most vulnerable.
“A coordinated response by the UN agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners in the country is already underway to meet immediate needs in shelter, health, food, protection, and other life-saving responses,” he said.
Japan also announced relief assistance through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko also announced Japan’s support to the Philippines on his Twitter page. Relief goods included generators, camping tents, and sleeping pads, portable water containers, and tarpaulins and plastic sheets.