The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines' humanitarian arm has initiated a nationwide call for assistance following the devastating impact of Typhoon Tino, which left hundreds dead and thousands homeless across multiple regions.
Widespread Destruction and Humanitarian Crisis
Typhoon Tino battered the Philippines last week, resulting in 224 confirmed fatalities, 526 individuals injured, and 109 people still missing. The powerful storm affected approximately 946,660 families, equivalent to 3,330,315 people, across eight regions in Visayas and Mindanao.
In Cebu City's Sitio Lower Common, Barangay Bacayan, the Butuanon River overflowed during the typhoon's onslaught last Tuesday, November 4, 2025, reducing homes to rubble. Residents have been seen walking through the debris of what were once their houses, surveying the extensive damage to their community.
Caritas Philippines Mobilizes Relief Efforts
Caritas Philippines, in a social media announcement, urgently requested other dioceses to contribute donations to support disaster response operations. The organization emphasized the critical need for assistance, stating that thousands of families have lost both their homes and means of livelihood due to the typhoon's destruction.
"Your kindness can help them rebuild their lives. Together, let us be a source of hope and healing," expressed Caritas Philippines in their appeal.
The Catholic relief agency provided multiple banking channels for donations:
- BPI: Account Name CBCP Caritas Philippines Foundation Inc. (4951-007116/4951-007108)
- Metrobank: 632-7-632028586
- BDO: 004508034192
Caritas Philippines encouraged potential donors with the message: "Share what you can and be a channel of mercy and love."
International Support and Papal Solidarity
From the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV expressed his solidarity with the Philippine nation, particularly those affected by Typhoon Tino. During his Angelus message at St. Peter's Square on Sunday, the Pontiff declared his support for Filipinos confronting the disaster's effects.
"I express my closeness to the people of the Philippines, who have been hit by a violent typhoon," Pope Leo XIV stated. He additionally offered prayers for those severely impacted by the calamity, saying, "I pray for the deceased and their families, as well as for the injured and displaced."
The widespread devastation requires immediate and sustained humanitarian intervention as communities begin the challenging process of recovery and reconstruction in the typhoon's wake.
