The United Nations warned Wednesday that the situation in Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines has now become a full-blown humanitarian crisis, with fighting between government troops and Muslim rebels have already uprooted thousands from the region.
Earlier this month, armed clashes erupted between Government forces and non-State actors in Zamboanga City. Some 132 people have died as a result of the standoff.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that some 158,000 people have been affected by the violence and more than 10,000 homes have been destroyed. In addition, over 109,000 people are now displaced in Zamboanga City and nearly 19,000 are displaced in the Basilan province.
"We are increasingly alarmed by the situation and the growing needs of people caught up with violence. We are particularly concerned for the most vulnerable, especially the well-being of women and children," said Luiza Carvalho, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Philippines, in a statement Wednesday.
Carvalho also expressed concern over the plight of those displaced, many of whom are struggling to survive.
Some 70,000 people are currently staying in the main sports complex in Zamboanga City in overcrowded conditions and insufficient sanitation facilities. OCHA warned there is a real risk of a disease outbreak and an urgent need for food, drinking water, health services, cooking utensils, tents and other necessities.
"We are particularly concerned that aid is delivered in an impartial manner, with the needs of the most vulnerable met and those outside the evacuation centers not forgotten. We expect that all humanitarian workers providing support to the victims of violence are protected and respected, and their safety is ensured by all actors," she said.
Carvalho also reiterated OCHA's commitment to the humanitarian response as well as its support for Government efforts to respond and provide assistance to civilians.
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