26 November 2013 - The Indonesian Red Cross (Palang Merah Indonesia) is coordinating with the Philippine Red Cross, the delivery of humanitarian assistance for the victims and survivors of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) valued at approximately US$2.5 million.

The relief goods include food items, hygiene kits, blankets, family tents, a water tank truck and water purification units. PMI will also send on loan a helicopter, a water truck, ambulances, and other vehicles. It is also sending a team of 30 volunteers.

At a ceremony held on November 22, the Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia and other guests were received by PMI Chairman and Former Vice-President of Indonesia, Mr. Jusuf Kalla.  They were given a tour of the ship and shown the equipment and cargo that the ship would be carrying.  An important part of the ceremony was the loading of an ambulance and a water tank truck.  The ship is expected to arrive in Cebu on November 29.

In her remarks, the Ambassador thanked the PMI for its generous donation and for the heartwarming words painted on the sides of the ship: “INDONESIA FOR PHILIPPINES.”  She noted that PMI, just like the Indonesian government was always quick to respond to calamities in the Philippines which the Philippine government and the Filipino people fully appreciate. 

Chairman Kalla was quick to respond that it was important for Indonesia to extend assistance because it cannot forget how the Philippines extended assistance in the aftermath of the tsunami that hit Aceh in 2004. END