In a display of solidarity with the citizens of Hurricane ravaged Philippines, Government of India today despatched relief package comprising of medicines, hygiene and chemicals, tentage, blankets, tarpaulins and ready to eat meals ex Armed Forces stocks by an Indian Air Force C-130 aircraft to Mactan. This will help meet the urgent need for life-saving medical care, food supplies and construction of temporary shelters in this hour of need in the face of a serious humanitarian crisis. The Eastern Coast of Philippines has been severely battered by the cyclone HAIYAN recently where over 10,000 people are feared dead and about 4 million people have been affected. A similar aid was provided to Philippines by India in 2006 as well. Plans are underway to further supplement the effort and provide additional relief material through an Indian Naval Ship that will set sail at the earliest.