Ketsana ravages Philippines, death toll rises to 240

30 September, 2009

Tropical storm Ketsana has till date claimed the life of 240 people according to the latest list released by the government of Philippines. The severity of the situation has compelled government to open doors of presidential palace for the victims.

THE SATURDAY'S (September 26), horrifying tropical storm Ketsana has till date claimed the life of 240 people according to the latest list released by the government of Philippines. Some senior officials have also claimed that the death toll could surge as the evacuation is still underway and hundreds of people are assumed to be buried under the rubble caused by catastrophic storm.

The severity of the situation has compelled government to open doors of presidential palace for the victim of one of the worst natural calamity in Philippines in recent times. The open and sheltered space within the premises of presidential palace is being used to house displaced people and for the distribution of relief material. Government of Philippines has appealed international agencies and other countries for assistance in this hour of natural calamity, which has thrown the cloud of gloom across Philippines.

In a communication released for media on Tuesday (September 29), president of Philippines, Arroyo said "Evacuees will be given shelter in available areas among the Malacanang palace buildings and in tents that will be put up in between the buildings." She also added, in case employee offices and work stations are required, she will offer that too for her countrymen.

The dangerous storm has moved to Vietnam where it has killed more than 25 people and destroyed many houses and buildings leading to the loss of million of dollars.