Manila, February 15, 2018 — The U.S. government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has committed Php5.2 million in emergency assistance to address the immediate needs of people most affected by the Mt. Mayon volcanic eruption. This follows the Albay provincial government’s declaration of a state of calamity.

USAID’s Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance, in coordination with the Philippine government, will distribute vouchers for families to purchase essential household items and hygiene kits in order to improve living conditions and help prevent illness in evacuation centers. In addition, USAID will construct latrines, bathing cubicles, and handwashing stations, as well as promote safe water and hygiene practices through educational materials. Overall, this assistance is expected to benefit 4,000 people.

“The U.S. government’s support is a testament to our unwavering partnership with the Philippines,” said Ambassador Sung Kim. “In the last 10 years, the United States has provided nearly $277 million (over Php14.4 billion at today's exchange rate) in disaster assistance to the Philippines. This assistance has saved lives, alleviated human suffering, and reduced the economic and social impact of disasters.”

USAID will continue to coordinate with the Philippine government and relief agencies in Albay to monitor the humanitarian situation and channel aid to people most in need.