Exactly eight months have passed since the typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolanda) struck the Philippines, leaving large destruction in its wake. Haiyan travelled from the southern part of the island of Samar and turned to the west in the early morning, hitting Basey. In this area, Caritas Czech Republic (CR) supports the activities of the Centre for Social Action Diocese of Calbayog (DSAC) and especially equipment to local schools.

With a strength of 313 km/h, Haiyan destroyed homes, businesses, shops, and schools – the whole infrastructure was devastated. The schools on Basey were greatly damaged or totally destroyed, including school furniture, computers, teaching and learning materials, laboratory equipment, appliances, toilets and washrooms. Haiyan resulted in the deaths of four local teachers and fourteen students.

Basey has changed a lot after eight months. Schools were repaired and classes resumed. This achievement required cooperation and support between the government and international organizations. The communal goal was to enable students and teachers to return to their normal school life.

Today, Caritas CR, together with Caritas Romania and the local partner - the Centre for Social Action Diocese of Calbayog - support three schools in Basey. Caritas CR provided necessary school equipment with costs amounting to 616,000 CZK. These items included student chairs, 66 teacher tables and chairs, 56 blackboards six computers with full attachments, eight bookshelves, three first-aid kits, and equipment for two kitchens. This is the first step to helping 2,887 students and their teachers on a long and difficult road to recovery.

From the collection, which Caritas launched last November, will be supported the other activities too. Until the end of year, it will primarily support 187 farmers in the districts of Basey and Marabut.