Norway gives NOK 20 million in humanitarian aid to the Philippines

Norway is providing NOK 20 million in immediate humanitarian aid to the Philippines. “I would like to express my sympathy with the Philippine people who have been so badly hit by this disaster. We are following the humanitarian situation in the Philippines closely, and will provide further assistance when we have a better overview of exactly what is needed,” commented Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende. 

On Friday, the Philippines were hit by the typhoon Haiyan, known locally as Yolanda. There is enormous damage and a huge need for humanitarian aid. Norway is the third largest contributor to the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), which will be providing support for the victims. In addition, Norway’s Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning has agreed to provide expertise and resources as requested by the UN. 

“It goes without saying that Norway will play its part in helping the Philippines in this serious humanitarian crisis. The NOK 20 million that we are providing now will be channelled through the UN, the Red Cross and other humanitarian organisations that have access to the affected areas,” said Mr Brende.