Manila, Philippines, Dec 7, 2012 / 02:00 am
Catholic relief agencies are working to help the victims of Typhoon Bopha, the strongest storm to hit the Philippines this year.
Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu said the Philippines bishops' conference has mobilized social action centers in the 86 dioceses in the country, according to CBCP News.
"Our hearts bleed for the victims of the typhoon," he said Dec. 6. "Our charity should reach out to those who are in need."
Five teams from the U.S.-based Catholic Relief Services have visited village and towns to survey the damage and determine residents' immediate needs, the agency said Dec. 5. The typhoon affected the southern island of Mindanao, causing considerable damage in the provinces of Compostela and Davao Oriental. Many lack electricity and communications are poor.