Fears for 20 Million Children as Year's Strongest Storm Approaches the Philippines

FAIRFIELD, Conn. (Oct. 31, 2020)— There are fears for the safety of more than 20 million children as the year's most powerful storm approaches the Philippines, warns Save the Children.

Typhoon Goni, the most powerful storm to hit the Philippines since Haiyan killed more than 6,300 people in 2013, makes landfall on Sunday as a category-5 super typhoon.

Aid workers are gearing up to respond, as Atty. Alberto Muyot, CEO of Save the Children in the Philippines, explains, "This is the most powerful storm to approach the Philippines in seven years. It has developed into a super typhoon off the east coast of Luzon’s main island, home to Manila and 65 million people.

"We fear the humanitarian impact of this monster storm will be very high. Children from poor households in coastal towns and remote provinces will bear the brunt of the typhoon's impact.

"In response, we have mobilized a specialist team of 10 aid workers. As soon as it is safe to do so, they will be sent to Luzon’s most impacted parts.

"We know from our experience responding to typhoons and other disasters that it's crucial we quickly distribute basic life-saving hygiene kits and items like plastic sheeting for shelter. Food and drinking water will be needed too. In addition to this, we have seven mobile health units ready for deployment."

“It is vital that the local and national government help protect the most vulnerable including children, pregnant and lactating mothers, from the typhoon’s impacts,” said Atty. Alberto Muyot.

"The typhoon will bring violent winds and heavy rains that will cause storm surges and flooding in the coming days. Our community will need to rally to offer support to the most vulnerable people.

"We also have concerns for people who may have to shelter in cramped evacuation areas, exposing them to COVID19 and other life-threatening diseases, hunger and possible abuse and violence."

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Since our founding more than 100 years ago, we've been advocating for the rights of children worldwide. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming the future we share. Our results, financial statements and charity ratings reaffirm that Save the Children is a charity you can trust. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.