Philippines: Handicap International assisting victims of Typhoon Nock-Ten

More than 1,500,000 people were affected when Typhoon Nock-Ten (known locally as Typhoon Nina) made landfall in the Philippines on 25th December 2016. Handicap International is now helping victims of the disaster to access accommodation and drinking water.

Distribution of hygiene & shelter kits organized by Handicap International and its partners, with Start Fund support, to population affected by Typhoon Nock Ten. | © J. Chua/Handicap International

Typhoon Nock-Ten, which reached the Philippines on 25th December 2016, hit 15 provinces, including the island of Catanduanes. The disaster affected more than 1,500,000 people and destroyed more than 124,000 homes. More than 316,000 people were displaced to evacuation centres. Many people are now homeless and no longer have access to drinking water and sanitary facilities, such as showers and latrines.

With support from the Start Fund and in conjunction with partner organisations, Handicap International has provided assistance to more than 1,200 people (including 300 families with disabled or pregnant family members) who have been affected by the disaster, in the communes of San Andres and San Miguel. The organisation has distributed hygiene kits containing soap, toothpaste and shampoo, so that people can wash themselves and transport drinking water. It has also supplied people with rope and plastic sheets to repair damage to their homes.

Handicap International, in conjunction with its partners, is also preparing to distribute 1,500 additional hygiene kits and is currently identifying the needs of people who are yet to receive aid.