The Philippines are made up of around 7000 islands – which means that water is never far away. But finding fresh water for drinking and domestic use was a real struggle for many poor communities even before Typhoon Haiyan in 2013.
Caritas launched one of its largest relief operations in recent years to help 1.8 million people in the immediate aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan with emergency aid and in the two years that followed.
Caritas Philippines is preparing to help 25,000 of the most vulnerable people affected by Typhoon Koppu, prioritising people who are in hard-to-reach areas.
As Pope Francis makes his historic wisit to the Philippines, Caritas Philippines is asking for help in addressing the issue of climate change. The pope will meet families who survived natural disasters like Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda).
In 2013, the Archdiocese of Palo in Leyte was devastated by Typhoon Haiyan. Now their emergency unit is giving relief assistance to people affected by Typhoon Hagupit in Catbalogan City, Samar.
Filipinos are breathing a sigh of relief after Typhoon Hagupit, known locally as Ruby, passed over their islands without causing major damage. Caritas has been giving out food and other emergency supplies.
Ronald says that coming back to the hospital is an important milestone. “I am very happy,” he says. “I’m glad I’ve seen Hilda, and glad that she’s alive.