UAE sends aid to Philippines amid Taal volcano crisis

Abu Dhabi - Following the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.

The UAE has provided relief aid to those affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano in the Philippines.

This comes following the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and under the supervision of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra region and Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC).

Taal, a small volcano near the Philippine capital Manila, erupted with a massive plume of ash and steam on January 12, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of people. Though volcanic activities seemed to have waned, the country remains on a high alert level, with experts saying that an explosive eruption is possible within hours to days.

In sending help to the Philippines, particularly the evacuees, the ERC prepared a plan with two components.

The first involves immediately sending an ERC delegation to Manila to lead its field relief operations, purchase basic necessities from local markets, and supervise the delivery to those affected.

The second include dispatching air relief missions, carrying the necessary supplies.

Dr Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, secretary-general of the ERC, said the move affirms the UAE's solidarity with the Philippine government and the Filipino people.

"Sheikh Hamdan has directed the ERC to fulfil the needs of those affected and intensify its humanitarian response in the Philippines," Dr Al Falahi said.

The organisation is also closely cooperating with the UAE Embassy in Manila and the Philippine Red Cross in delivering the aid promptly.

Recently, it held a coordination meeting at its headquarters with representatives of the Philippine Embassy in the UAE, including Hjayceelyn M. Quintana, Ambassador of the Philippines to the UAE.

Quintana praised the UAE's fast response to the effects of the volcano eruption in her country, adding that the UAE has always supported Filipinos with several development projects in health, education, construction and other services.

• Philippines