Last week, Tropical Storm Trami ravaged the Philippines, affecting millions of people, causing at least 140 fatalities, and inflicting economic losses exceeding 4 billion pesos (USD$68,723,200). Taiwan donated 500 tons of rice to the disaster relief effort on Tuesday and followed up with a USD$150,000 donation Thursday.
Taiwan Representative in the Philippines Wallace Chow (周民淦) presented the check to Chairman of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office Cheloy Garafil on behalf of the Taiwanese government. Chow said he hopes victims of the storm will be able to resume normal life as soon as possible, affirming that Taiwan will remain a reliable friend to the Philippines during difficult times.
Garafil expressed her gratitude for the donation, noting that she was particularly touched considering Taiwan is currently reckoning with the effects of Typhoon Kong-rey. She said that the donation will be given to their Department of Social Welfare and Development to help victims rebuild their homes.
The 500-ton rice donation is the first part of a 2,000-ton rice donation the Taiwanese government promised to the Philippines for humanitarian aid earlier this year. As of Tuesday, 1,500 tons have been donated, and the remaining 500 tons are scheduled to be delivered next month.