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Coastal communities were devastated in flash floods triggered by Typhoon Washi.
Plan is assisting thousands of families affected by severe flooding after Typhoon Washi (also known as Sendong) caused widespread devastation in the Mindanao Island of the Philippines last Friday.
More than 1000 people are confirmed dead and many are still missing. More than 345,000 people have been affected.
Philippines President Benigno Aquino has declared a state of national calamity and the state has decided to accept international assistance.
Plan is sending 10,000 hygiene kits, water-purification kits and 2000 water containers as a first wave of response to communities in Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro, two of the worst hit areas. These kits will be distributed to about 8500 families in evacuation centres.
Almost 35,000 people are in evacuation centres in the city of Cagayan de Oro alone. More than 39,000 families (232,000 people) are stranded outside the overflowing evacuation centres.
Plan is also preparing to respond in Negros Oriental, where nearly 50,000 people have been affected.
Plan's Programs Director Dave Husy said Mindanao was usually spared the worst of the Philippines' annual storms. It is home to various tribes of indigenous peoples.
"We know that children are among the most vulnerable people in any disaster situation," said Mr Husy. "We will be using our expertise in responding to such events to support and protect the children of Mindanao, along with other vulnerable groups such as women and the indigenous people."
Mr Husy said providing emotional first-aid to children affected by the floods was also important. "The emotional impact of the disaster on children, especially those who have lost their parents or have been displaced, needs attention. It will be one of our key priorities."
Plan has been working in the Philippines since 1961 and runs a project supporting children formerly associated with armed groups in parts of Mindanao along with Unicef. Even though Plan's program areas in Mindanao have escaped the typhoon, the organisation is responding to the overwhelming needs of thousands affected by the flood to ensure that vulnerable children are prioritised.
To support children affected by the Philippines typhoon and Plan's work with children and communities affected by disasters around the world, you can donate to our Children in Crisis Fund or call 13 75 26.
As the areas hit by Typhoon Washi were not Plan Program units, no sponsored children or their families have been affected.
To speak to Dave Husy, please contact:
David Cook
Media Officer
Plan International Australia
Mobile: 0448 816 900
Email: David.cook@plan.org.au