UNWTO is deeply saddened by the devastating impact of typhoon Haiyan which hit an important part of the Visayas region in the Philippines. On behalf of the international tourism community, UNWTO conveys its heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims and to the Government of the Philippines.
“Our thoughts at this difficult moment are with the families and friends of the victims and all those suffering in this tragic moment” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. “UNWTO is confident that despite this tragic occurrence, the tourism sector in the Philippines will continue to strive and make a key contribution to the development of the country”, he added.
UNWTO has transmitted the Organization’s readiness to support the Philippines in any tourism-related recovery programme to be designed for the affected areas and is calling on the tourism industry and tourists to support the Philippines by donating their contributes to the on-going relief efforts of the various UN agencies operating on the ground.
“We call upon all tourism companies, associations and tourists from all around the world to contribute to the UN efforts being deployed to support the Philippines and show the solidarity of the sector with the people of the Philippines in this difficult moment”, Mr Rifai added.
Useful links:
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA): Typhoon Haiyan
UNDP Philippines: Situation Updates
UN agencies with fund raising efforts
