A lawmaker in the United States lauded the efforts of the international community that continue to assist victims of typhoon “Ondoy” (International codename: Ketsana) in the Philippines.

“I want to thank everyone who has pitched in to help our friends recover from this terrible disaster,” said US Senator Daniel Akaka.

Akaka delivered a speech on the Senate floor in support of the recovery efforts to help Filipino families affected by massive flooding in Metro Manila and in Luzon.

He commended the US Embassy in Manila for offering financial aid and the US Armed Service based in the Philippines for conducting life-saving rescues. He also cited the financial support of the UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) that provided relief operations.

“Tropical Storm Ketsana struck the Philippines Saturday near Manila, causing massive flooding across the island nation. News footage shows people being swept away by raging torrents, stranded on rooftops without supplies, or wading through waist-high flood water,” Akaka said.

Aside from the Philippines, the storm, he said, also brought destruction to China and Vietnam.  
 
“I rise today to stand in unity with our friends in the Philippines, China, and Vietnam, who are recovering from a terrible natural disaster,” said Akaka.

Filipino community offers help
The US Senator for Hawaii said that several Filipino organizations have been mobilized to help typhoon-victims in the Philippines.

“The Filipino Community Center, the United Filipino Council of Hawaii, and the Philippine Consulate General of Honolulu are among the organizations raising funds.  I am encouraged by all those offering assistance in Hawaii and across the nation,” he said.  

The typhoon killed more than 200 Filipinos and affected over two million people.
 
“As I speak, rescuers are searching for any remaining survivors. Family members are mourning lost loved ones.  Millions of Filipinos across the country are struggling to find clean water, food, medicine, and shelter,” he said.  

Akaka was recently honored by President Arroyo during her trip to Washington DC. Mrs. Arroyo presented Akaka and fellow US Sen. Daniel Inouye, with a Presidential Citation in appreciation for their work for Filipino World War II veterans.