FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva has said that the FAO will do everything it can to support the Government of the Philippines in the reconstruction process and to build resilience following the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan.
In addition to the massive loss of life caused by the typhoon, the fisheries and agriculture sectors have also suffered severe damage, which puts the lives and livelihoods of many more at risk and could have a wider effect on the food supply chain and food security.
The FAO has called for $24 million for immediate interventions in fisheries and agriculture as part of the UN-coordinated humanitarian Flash Appeal, which will be needed for emergency and rehabilitation efforts, including rehabilitation of storage and irrigation facilities and support to fishing communities. The FAO has already mobilised more than $1 million from its own resources.
“I want to express the solidarity of FAO and myself personally with the people and the Government of the Philippines,” FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva said.
Along the coast the storm surge wiped out many fishing communities, demolishing boats and gear.
Dominique Burgeon, director of the FAO's Emergency and Rehabilitation Division said, “Although there is not a clear picture yet of the impact on the agriculture sector, it is evident that the damage is extensive.”
