3 December 2004, Makati City --- The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) will provide US$100,000 (P5.6 million) worth of relief supplies to Aurora and Camarines Norte, two of the most devastated provinces by a recent string of storms and typhoons.

In response to a request for emergency assistance from these provinces, UNICEF will provide household packages, noodles, sardines, and essential drugs and vitamins.

Household packages include water containers, cooking supplies, plates, sleeping mats, blankets, mosquito nets, and clothes.

“UNICEF’s initial response is meant to protect the health and safety of children, who are particularly vulnerable in times of disaster,” says Colin Davis, Officer-in-Charge of UNICEF Philippines.

“At the same time, we are making an appeal to the international community to provide at least US$720,000 to safeguard children and support the longer-term recovery of affected communities,” Davis added.

Aurora and Camarines Norte are two of 19 provinces and 5 cities assisted by UNICEF under the Country Programme for Children.
Other UNICEF-assisted areas affected by the recent tropical depressions and typhoons include Isabela, Mt. Province and the cities of Manila, Quezon and Pasay.

UNICEF has been providing a package of programmes in health, nutrition, education, and child protection in these areas.