Aid to Refugees of Storms, Floods, and Violence

In March 2022, the Taal volcano erupted once again. And in June 2022, the Bulusan Volcano began erupting, also near the capital region of Luzon island in the  Philippines.  Explosive lava activity continues. On June 10, the Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) Tokyo warned about a volcanic ash plume that rose up to estimated 17000 ft (5200 m) altitude, with a large cloud of ash moving in a westerly direction. In fact, since January 2020, the Taal Volcano erupted affecting over 502,500 people. The Philippine government estimated 73,000 school-age children were displaced among 146,992 persons in temporary shelters in 489 evacuation centers. Fresh food, clean water, and shelter materials are still in short supply. The volcanic ash high in earth's altitude has created unusual year-long heavy rain and flooding, especially in the Capiz, Visayas and Jolo, Mindanao areas where numerous AAI "peace through development" programs are based.  Many roads are flood damaged. Worse, many other areas are affected by the COVID-19 virus with little to no hygiene or adequate medical supplies to protect aid workers.

Asia America Initiative is working with local leaders, community organizations, school teachers, police, and firefighters to deliver urgently needed goods and services to families who cannot return to their homes. We have already delivered four tons of food, blankets, and hygiene supplies. We are also preparing to send support for an additional 2,000 families (or 10,000 adults and children) who are homeless in especially hard-to-reach areas in Visayas and Mindanao regions.

Because many volcanoes are active across the Pacific Ocean Ring of Fire, Asia America Initiative is committed to long-term humanitarian relief to at least 5,000 displaced families. We are sending face masks and sterile gloves to firefighters and professional health workers. Relief supplies from the US, including food and hygiene items, will be sent to the Philippines to be distributed to refugees in shelters and health centers. Donations help us to acquire emergency supplies to send to affected communities.