The Philippines is asking international donors for aid to help hundreds of thousands of people rendered homeless by typhoon Xangsane. According to defense secretary and civil defense chief Avelino Cruz, last month’s disaster destroyed 117,000 houses and caused PhP2.15 billion ($43 million) in damage to vital infrastructure such as roads, bridges and schools. Although the government is ready to finance the rehabilitation efforts, he said the country hopes the international community will “help in giving materials and tools so people can repair their houses.” (Source: RP seeks foreign aid to rebuild after typhoon/Agence France-Presse)