Manila: The Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and the Diocese of Tarlac have made an urgent appeal to Caritas Manila for financial and relief assistance following the devastation caused by tropical cyclone Maymay and the intensified southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat.

According to Philippines News Agency, in separate interviews conducted over Radio Veritas, Archbishop David William Antonio of Nueva Segovia and Caritas Tarlac Executive Director Rev. Fr. Randy Salunga reached out to Caritas Manila for aid. The church leaders highlighted the severe impact of the weather disturbances and heavy rains on local communities. Archbishop Antonio reported that 4,192 families, comprising 12,641 individuals, have been severely affected, based on data from the Ilocos Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and Parish Social Action Coordinators.

The calamity has resulted in the partial damage of 26 houses, with one house being completely destroyed, particularly in the southwestern communities of the province. Archbishop Antonio appealed for financial assistance to support affected communities and emphasized the need for prayers to help residents cope with fear and anxiety.

Rev. Fr. Randy Salunga conveyed to Rev. Fr. Anton C.T. Pascual of Caritas Manila the dire situation faced by indigenous families in Tarlac due to continuous rainfall. The inclement weather has severely disrupted livelihoods, leaving residents without food as they are unable to work or farm. Caritas Tarlac has requested food packs and relief goods to address the critical food shortages faced by these families.

At least 100 Aeta families in Sitio Tala are in urgent need of assistance, as noted by Salunga. He expressed gratitude for Caritas Manila's ongoing support during times of disaster and crises, acknowledging their role as a steadfast ally in providing aid to affected communities across the country.