The United Nations' International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the government of Japan handed over cold chain vehicles and other medical equipment to local facilities in communities affected by Typhoon Odette on Wednesday, Nov. 23.
At least three cold chain vehicles, six biomedical refrigerators, and six portable diagnostic ultrasound machines have been given to local communities of Dinagat Islands, Southern Leyte, and Surigao del Norte, including Siargao Island.
“Japan has always proven to be a close friend of the Philippines, particularly in times of adversity. As countries that experience various hardships due to climate calamities, our shared values bring us closer together and strengthen our overall cooperation” said Yoshihisa Ishikawa, the Consul General of Japan in Davao.
Japan was among the countries that immediately extended assistance to the Philippines following Typhoon Odette.
A disaster relief aid of US$13 million has been contributed by Japan for Typhoon Odette victims, of which US$4.2 million was provided to IOM.
Through this, IOM implemented a project that focused on delivering multi-sectoral assistance, including Health and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS).
“In the aftermath of calamities, we could not emphasize more the value of having access to primary healthcare. It is even more needed because those affected are vulnerable to diseases and other ailments,” said Ishikawa.
A total of 13 health facilities and over 140 affected communities have been given medical equipment and emergency health kits by IOM as of today.
“There remains a strong need for converged and continued efforts to support the Typhoon-affected and disaster-prone communities,” said Tristan A. Burnett, IOM Chief of Mission in the Philippines.
“It is crucial to identify and promote viable approaches to facilitate durable solutions to internal displacement and the typhoon-affected populations across the country including sustainable reintegration, local integration, and relocation or resettlement,” he added.
Several key local government stakeholders and health officials also attended the handover ceremony.
Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo Demerey, Jr., extended his gratitude to Japan and IOM, saying the cold chain equipment will particularly help improve their Covid-19 testing services provision.
Dr. Ernesto E. Pareja, chief of the Local Health Support Division for the Department of Health - Caraga Region, assured they will “remain true to our mission of providing better health services to all communities by connecting our bridges with our partners.”
Typhoon Odette is the strongest storm to hit the country in 2021, affecting over 12 million people.