Officials in the Philippines say the typhoon that struck the archipelago earlier this week killed at least 19 people, left hundreds homeless and displaced thousands more. Typhoon Nida ravaged several eastern provinces with winds of 150 km/h. Several villages were reported to have been destroyed and the authorities suspended sea travel in the affected area, temporarily stranding more than 15,000 people.
President Arroyo has placed eight eastern provinces under a state of calamity, giving them quick access to emergency funds.
Up to 20 typhoons hit the Philippines every year.
From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
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