By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
MANILA — Taiwan has offered assistance to the Philippine government following the devastation brought by Typhoon Usman in the Visayas that killed 71 and injured dozens.
“To help (the) affected people overcome the adversities and promptly restore their lives back to normal, Taiwan is willing to cooperate with the Philippines by providing necessities and assistances specifically required by the affected people,” the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Manila said in a statement Monday.
“Usman” made landfall on Dec. 29, which triggered landslides and flash floods in Samar and the Bicol region.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said a total of 71 dead, 17 missing, and 12 wounded were reported in Eastern Visayas, Mimaropa, and Bicol region.
In its 6 p.m. situational report on Dec. 31, the disaster management body noted that the casualties are still subject to verification.
At least 30,469 families were also affected by the devastating storm, 3,619 of which are being served inside 112 evacuation centers.
“The government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) express their sincere cares and condolences to the government of the Philippines and people in the affected areas,” TECO’s statement read.
