Thousands seek temporary shelter in Catholic churches in Philippines due to massive flooding

Thousands of residents displaced by massive flooding in Metro Manila sought refuge in churches across different dioceses on Wednesday.

In the Diocese of Novaliches alone, Caritas reported that more than 4,700 families took shelter in parish churches and chapels across the diocese as of 6 PM on July 24, due to flooding caused by Typhoon Carina and intense southwest monsoon rains.

At least seven parish churches in the Diocese of Cubao also opened their doors to accommodate evacuees.

Earlier today, the diocese reported that at least 120 residents were taking shelter in a multi-purpose hall in Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City.

The Diocese of Pasig announced that the Ina Ng Mga Dukha Parish Church is open to residents seeking temporary shelter.

Similarly, the Diocese of Kalookan has welcomed residents displaced by the flooding to the San Roque Cathedral. "Ang lahat po ay welcome," the diocese stated in a social media announcement. "Tuloy po kayo sa ating katedral." [Everyone is welcome. Welcome to our cathedral].

On Wednesday, the Diocese of Parañaque issued an Oratio Imperata for deliverance from calamities and urged everyone to stay safe.

More than 60 residents took temporary shelter at the Minor Basilica of San Pedro Bautista in Quezon City, while approximately 160 residents sought refuge at the Santuario del Sto. Cristo Parish Church in San Juan City.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported earlier that the typhoon and southwest monsoon rains resulted in at least 14 deaths and two missing persons, affecting about 1 million people.

Typhoon Carina exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility earlier today and is now moving towards Taiwan.

The dioceses in Manila have called for donations to support the needs of the evacuees. Church social arm groups have also distributed essential goods such as food, water, and medical assistance.

"Caritas Novaliches is currently distributing goods to heavily affected areas and coordinating aid efforts, working closely with local parishes and barangay units to ensure efficient support for the most vulnerable communities," the Diocese of Novaliches stated in a social media post.