On the morning of November 8, 2013, category 5 Typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolanda) made a direct hit on the Philippines and its 92 million people. Haiyan is possibly one of the most powerful storms ever recorded, with wind speeds of 235 km/h and gusts exceeding 275 km/h. Rain fell at rates of up to 30 mm per hour with massive storm surges up to six meters high. Many cities and towns experienced widespread destruction, with as much as 90 percent of housing destroyed in some areas. Roads are still blocked, airports and seaports impaired, and heavy ships have been thrown inland. Water supply and power are still cut; much of the food stocks and other goods are destroyed; many health facilities are not functioning and medical supplies are being exhausted.
On November 25th, Apl.de.ap teamed up with the Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation to tour Tacloban City. The damage they saw was nearly incomprehensible. What was once blocks and blocks of homes and stores was now miles of debris and rubble as far as the eyes can see. Typhoon Hayian had no mercy for anything whatsoever.
In the spirit of global giving and artistic collaboration, Apl.de.ap and the Apl.de.ap Foundation presents “REBUILD Philippines!”, a benefit concert to assist the survivors of Typhoon Haiyan.