Victoria’s strong and proud Filipino and Vietnamese communities are in mourning today, as Typhoon Haiyan continues causing devastation in south east Asia.
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson, Mr Chin Tan said Victoria is home to more than 38,000 people born in the Philippines and more than 68,000 people born in Vietnam.
“Our condolences go to the Filipino and Vietnamese communities, who are now dealing with fear and trauma from the loss of family and friends as a result of Typhoon Haiyan,” Mr Tan said.
“This is a tragedy of immense proportions that will have a huge impact on more than 100,000 Victorians.
“Coming so soon after the earthquake in the Philippines last month, the typhoon has stretched emergency relief personnel and resources beyond their limit.
“The VMC calls on all Victorians to consider making a donation to Red Cross or Oxfam to help with the emergency relief effort.
“We applaud the Federal Government’s $10 million support package to the Philippines, including a medical assistance team, food, sleeping mats and blankets, mosquito nets, water containers and hygiene kits.
“The Victorian Government has also committed $100,000 and the services of disaster relief professionals, like emergency services workers, health professionals and forensic teams.
“The extent of the loss and damage is still being assessed, but we know that the effect of Typhoon Haiyan will be felt for a long time.
“It’s important that we stick together and support our friends and neighbours during this very sad time,” he said.
Typhoon Haiyan, or Yolanda, hit the Philippines coast on Friday 8 November, with wind speeds in excess of 300 kilometres per hour, and reached the coast of Vietnam this morning. More than 25 million people live in its path.