Pope Expresses Solidarity with Filipino Typhoon Victims
Pope Leo XIV has offered heartfelt prayers for the millions of Filipinos affected by the devastating impact of Typhoon Tino, internationally known as Kalmaegi. During his Angelus prayer at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican on Sunday, November 9, 2025, the pontiff expressed his deep concern for those suffering from the catastrophic storm.
"I pray for the deceased and their families, as well as for the injured and displaced," the Pope declared in his emotional message. He emphasized his spiritual unity with the Filipino people during this challenging time, stating, "I express my closeness to the people of the Philippines, who have been hit by a violent typhoon."
Typhoon Tino's Devastating Impact
The powerful typhoon wreaked havoc across the Visayas and parts of Mindanao last week, leaving a trail of destruction that has affected millions. Official reports confirm that Typhoon Tino claimed 224 lives, with the majority of casualties occurring in Cebu province. The disaster also left 526 individuals injured and 109 people missing.
The scale of the devastation is staggering, with the typhoon affecting 946,660 families or approximately 3,330,315 individuals across eight regions in Visayas and Mindanao. The widespread damage has prompted massive emergency response operations throughout the affected areas.
Caritas Philippines Launches Nationwide Relief Effort
In response to the catastrophic situation, Caritas Philippines, the humanitarian arm of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, has initiated a nationwide appeal for assistance. Through social media announcements over the weekend, the organization called upon all dioceses to contribute donations for comprehensive disaster response.
"Thousands of families have lost their homes and livelihoods due to Typhoon Tino. Your kindness can help them rebuild their lives. Together, let us be a source of hope and healing," the organization stated in its appeal.
Caritas Philippines has provided multiple banking channels for donations:
- Account Name: CBCP Caritas Philippines Foundation Inc.
- BPI: 4951-007116 / 4951-007108
- Metrobank: 632-7-632028586
- BDO: 004508034192
Immediate Relief Needs Identified
Caritas Philippines, in coordination with Cebu Caritas Inc. and Caritas Germany, has conducted initial assessments in the most severely affected municipalities and cities throughout Cebu. As clearing operations and search and retrieval efforts continue, the organization has identified critical immediate needs:
Essential supplies required include:
- Drinking water and water for cleaning purposes
- Food packs for displaced families
- Basic household essentials
- Sleeping kits and temporary shelter materials
- Solar-powered lighting solutions
- Water containers and receptacles
- Sanitation and hygiene kits
- Emergency medical supplies
"Let us continue to extend our solidarity and compassion to the families affected by Typhoon Tino. Together, through our collective efforts and generosity, we can help them rebuild their homes and bring hope in the midst of devastation," Caritas Philippines added in their statement.
The coordinated relief effort represents a crucial response to one of the most severe natural disasters to hit the Philippines in recent years, combining international spiritual support with practical humanitarian assistance.
