Save the Children Responds as Flash Floods Strike the Philippines

ID: 1067009

(firmenpresse) - WESTPORT, CT -- (Marketwire) -- 12/17/11 -- is preparing to respond to flash flooding that has killed hundreds in the southern Philippines. The flooding was triggered by Tropical Storm Sendong, which has displaced thousands of children and adults.

The two hardest hit cities were Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City. Many deaths have also been registered in other southern provinces.

"We are hearing reports that the majority of those who have died in the floods are children, who are always most vulnerable in these situations," said Save the Children Philippines country director Anna Lindenfors.

"Children who have survived this disaster will be hungry, frightened and exhausted. We are especially worried about children who may have been separated from their parents during the flooding, as rains continue to fall and there is a very real risk of landslides causing further damage. Save the Children teams are already on the ground in the area, and will launch an emergency response as soon as possible."

Save the Children is mobilizing supplies and preparing to assess the damage and needs in the affected areas.

Save the Children has worked in the Philippines for the past 30 years and quickly delivers humanitarian relief after the nation's frequent typhoons and other disasters. A prime target of natural disasters, the Philippines experiences an average of 20 tropical storms a year and is located in a major earthquake zone housing a number of active volcanoes.

Donate now to the Philippines Annual Monsoon and Typhoon Children in Emergency Fund to support Save the Children's responses to ongoing and urgent needs as a result of typhoons, monsoons and other fierce storms in the Philippines.

Save the Children is the leading, independent organization that creates lasting change for children in need in the United States and around the world. Follow us on and .

Media Contacts:

Wendy Christian:
203.221.3767 (W)
203.465.8010 (M)

Lane Hartill
202.640.6608 (O)
202.294.9700 (M)

Eileen Burke:
203.221.4233 (W)
203.216.0718 (M)

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