Temelkovski sends condolences to typhoon victims

Oak Ridges — Markham MP Lui Temelkovski recently sent condolences to The Philippine Government and the Filipino community throughout Canada after Typhoon Durian hit the province of Albay, Bicol Region.

He issued the statement in his capacity as an MP and chair of the Canada-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group.

The Canadian government has contributed $500,000 to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent to assist with emergency and temporary shelter, non-food items, water and sanitation, he stated. A further $500,000 will be allocated to the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to support the recovery of affected households and address future disaster preparedness needs.

“I am pleased that the government is providing assistance, but it must remain vigilant and continue to monitor the situation,” he stated. “Canada must react quickly to changing circumstances and provide as much assistance as possible to help our friends in The Philippines cope. I recall the substantial aid and humanitarian assistance the previous Liberal Government contributed in 2004 to victims of typhoons in the Philippines and to countries affected by the tsunami.