Japan donates additional $3.7 million for Yolanda rehabilitation

MANILA, Philippines – Japan donated an additional US$3.5 million for the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Yolanda rehabilitation activities, totaling its bilateral donation to US$7 million. 

As of March 2014, UNDP has received a total of $11.5 million from various donations worldwide for its Yolanda response – more than half of which came from Japan.

Japan was one of the earliest responders when Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) wreaked havoc in Visayas. Just 11 days after Yolanda struck, Japan already committed its first $3.5 million to UNDP. (READ: Yolanda in numbers)

Japan prioritized “debris clearing,” since other humanitarian response would not reach the people if the roads are blocked. Through Japan’s help, UNDP purchased equipment needed for the initial response and road clearing. The UNDP in a statement lauded Japan for its “speedy commitment.”

Aside from UNDP assistance, Japan also financed recovery efforts carried out by different international organizations – as of March 2014, Japan’s donations already amounted to $54.39 million.

The Japanese have also expressed moral support for Filipinos at times of disaster. (READ: Japanese boy donates his savings to Yolanda survivors)

The Japanese government focused on:

• Food
• Shelter
• Early recovery
• Livelihood
• Water and Sanitation
• Nutrition and Health
• Education and Coordination

Aside from monetary aid, Japan also deployed troops, medics, volunteers, equipment, and transportation services to Yolanda-affected areas.

Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe and UNDP Resident Representative and UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for the Philippines Luiza Carvalho, on March 27, will sign a memorandum of cooperation.

Japan has had plenty of experience with disaster relief operations, as it has also experienced major earthquakes in the past. (READ: Lessons from Japan) – Rappler.com