Families displaced by Agaton in Leyte get transitional shelters from US

The Mascarinas family of Villa Mag-aso in Baybay City proudly show their new shelter provided by USAID and IOM. Photo courtesy of US Embassy

MANILA, Philippines — Families displaced by Tropical Storm Agaton (international name: Megi) in Leyte have received transitional shelters from the United States (US).

Through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the US government turned over 167 transitional shelters for around 900 people displaced by the tropical cyclone that battered the archipelago last April.

The beneficiaries are from Abuyog and Baybay City in Leyte.

“Recognizing the close family ties and the strong bonds within communities, my wish this holiday season is that these shelters will bring your family and communities together again in a safer environment,” said USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn in a statement on Thursday.

“The United States is proud to stand with you and your communities to rebuild and recover from the devastating loss caused by this storm,” he added.

On top of the transitional shelters, USAID teamed up with the International Organization for Migration to help over 12,000 individuals affected by Agaton by boosting access to safer living spaces, working with local authorities to identify relocation sites, giving flexible shelter packages, and training households on building better techniques.

The USAID’s typhoon aid to the Philippines reached about P1.6 billion to date.

JMS