Floods in the Philippines may mean Delays with Au Pairs

After relentless rain from Tropical Storm Ketsana, the Philippines capital city, Manila, is trying to stay afloat. On Monday, flood waters began to subside after a weekend storm that hit Manila with its heaviest rainfall in more than 40 years. More than 80 percent of the capital was under water at one point Sunday.

Today reporters in the region estimate that at least 280 people have died and many are still missing. The rainfall has not only flooded roads, but has left the citizens of Manila without electricity and running water. Public buildings including school, universities and churches have been turned into temporary relief centers.

International disasters like the flooding in the Philippines affect people around the world in many different ways. Au Pairs and Host Families can expect increased wait times for visa appointments and approvals until the flooding has completely subsided and the damage has been fixed. The embassy in Manila was closed during the weekend and through Monday, but reopened Tuesday.

goAUPAIR is pleased to report that our International Representatives and their families are safe.  Noy Benedicto, goAUPAIR’s Manila representative said, "Lots of people in the National Capital Region are without a house, the vehicles were submerged, and some parts are still under water. NCR is devastated."

goAUPAIR will post any updates regarding delays from the Manila embassy.