On 14
th of December 2015, typhoon Melor made its first landfall in Northern Samar. Fearsome winds and heavy rain continued for a few days and caused extensive damages to several provinces of the Philippines, namely, Albay, Northern Samar, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon and Sorsogon.
According to the information from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) of the Philippines, on 20
th December there were 40 deaths, 24 injuries and 6 remained missing. Further, over 290,000 people are forced to evacuate from above regions.
Following the landfall in Northern Samar, AMDA received a request of assistance for the region from one of our local partners - Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). Responding to the request, AMDA dispatched a nurse for conducting emergency relief activities for the affected people. AMDA nurse left Okayama on 20
th December and met with DAP members in Manila in the evening.
According to our local partner - DAP, although Christmas is coming, many affected people would not able to celebrate it due to the severe situation. AMDA nurse will discuss with DAP members and gather required information in order to assess local needs and then plan to move to Northern Samar on the 22
nd of Dec. 2015.