US sends $800,000 in assistance to storm-ravaged Philippines

The United States is sending USD 800,000 in emergency food aid and logistical support to the Philippines, following deadly floods and monsoon rains from Tropical Storm Trami. The State department early Wednesday extended condolences, on behalf of the US government, for the devastation and loss of life caused by the tropical storm in the Philippines. The US announced USD 300,000 in non-food assistance and USD 500,000 for warehousing and logistics support to improve the local rapid response efforts. US relief aid officials are working closely in coordination with the government of Philippines to assess the damage, to help identify and prioritize needs, and to coordinate response activities. Tropical Storm Trami, a catagory one typhoon, did not cause landfall in the Philippines, but it was close enough to cause flooding in the northern part of the country, including capital city Manila, that killed at least eight people. The storm is now moving towards Taiwan.