Firstly, to those Down Under Visa clients who have loved ones caught up in the areas in the Philippines that were affected by Typhoon Yolanda, you have our heartfelt sympathies. We are fortunate that we have no family members or very close friends that we’re worried about, but we know that many of you do. We can only imagine what you’re going through.

You need to understand that many of these places, especially in Leyte, are without power or phone services, and it may well be weeks before they get them back again. And that means that communication could well be impossible for a long time, and their priorities will be centered around more basic needs. 

We’ve had clients asking if we can contact the authorities to help locate people in affected areas. Unfortunately we have no contacts and no influence in this area. There doesn’t appear to be any easy way of tracking people down, and much as we wish we could help I’m afraid we are unable to do so.

There is a desperate need in these areas for emergency supplies, and the Red Cross appears to be doing a sterling job on the ground. May we suggest that you consider donating some money to them to help them to keep doing this? At least this is one practical thing that you CAN do. Their contact is http://www.redcross.org.ph/donatenow

Our thoughts and our prayers are with you.