Filipinos in NZ: United We Thank
If the media coverage of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) at the height of its fury shocked people around the world, the aftermath brought horrible news and photos of deaths and devastation in the path that it took in the Visayas Islands, Philippines. Initially, it was reported that the death toll reached 10,000, but as rescue and relief workers started actual count the number of dead is still saddening at 5,000 and rising. The New Zealand Government was among the first to provide aid to the Philippines in terms of cash. It sent a cargo plane loaded with important supplies and equipment at most crucial times. While the social media gave up-to-date news, the mainstream media in New Zealand – radio, television and newspapers – provided substantial coverage that touched the hearts of many Kiwis.