The Overseas Department’s International Network for Mutual Help decided to donate relief money from its fund to those who were affected by Typhoon Washi, which hit Mindanao Island in the southern part of the Philippines last December. The network entrusted the Intercommunication Center for Asia and Nippon (ICAN) with 1,000,000 yen (about US$12,750). ICAN has been engaging in various reliefs efforts in that community.
According to the Philippines’ National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, more than 1,200 people died and over 6,000 were injured. Approximately 440,000 people still live in evacuation centers, especially on Mindanao Island, the country’s second largest island next to Luzon Island. The International Network for Mutual Help made the donation to ICAN through Tenrikyo Mission Center in the Philippines on January 27.
ICAN, which was established in 1994, has been engaging in education support and community development for disadvantaged children in the Philippines. Furthermore, since the typhoon hit the island, ICAN’s two branch offices located on Mindanao Island have been supporting sufferers by sending relief supplies and taking part in medical support.
The International Network for Mutual Help is continuously asking for relief donations so as to reach out to those who are affected by disasters occurring in various places in the world. For more information about making relief donations, please contact the Overseas Department’s International Network for Mutual Help at tnet@tenrikyo.or.jp.