Volcano Threatens Christmas Celebrations in the Philippines

(18 Dec 09 - RV) Philippine troops evacuated about 12,000 people from villages at the base of the country's most active volcano today as it showed signs of a major eruption.


A state of calamity has been declared in eight cities and towns around Mayon Volcano,  and a 6-8 km no-go zone has been imposed.
More than 35,00 people have already left the area, and social workers in evacuation centres are organising Christmas parties and games to keep children busy.

The Philippines is still struggling to recover from two typhoons that hit the archipelago in September and October of this year.
The Executive Director of Caritas Philippines, Sr Rosanne Mallillin, told us that while Caritas is keeping up with relief efforts, the Christmas spirit has not waned: