MANILA – International R&B artist Akon has extended help to the thousands of victims of tropical storm Ondoy (international codename Ketsana).

The “Smack That” singer announced that the proceeds from his “Freedom Tour 09” concert here will be used to aid the flood victims.

He said: "For every ticket you buy, you do your own humble share in assuring your calamity stricken brothers of food, clothing and shelter.

“It is in these trying times that we find our greatest strength, faith and capacity for self-sacrifice.”

Akon’s concert was originally slated on July 4 at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City but “due to unforeseen circumstances” it has been moved to October 23. "SNN: Showbiz News Ngayon" reported that the organizers had been forced to postpone his concert due to influenza A(H1N1) virus.

The Senegalese-American singer is one of the several international celebrities who expressed their sympathies to Ondoy victims. The other celebrities were Demi Moore, Filipino American singer apl.de.ap of The Black Eyed Peas, Josh Groban, Alyssa Milano, Lionel Ritchie and David Foster.

Local celebrities also spearheaded fundraising drives for the flood victims. Some of the artists even participated in the distribution of relief goods.

Actors Piolo Pascual and Zanjoe Marudo recently supported a charity golf tournament at the Veterans Golf and Country Club that will not only benefit Pascual’s foundation but the Ondoy victims as well.

Christian Bautista has announced that sales from his and Jose Mari Chan’s album collection will be given to the affected families. Report from Mario Dumaual, ABS-CBN News