Food, relief supplies sent to Manam after volcano

By DOROTHY MARK
FOOD and other relief supplies have been sent to Manam Island as villagers begin to assess the damage to their gardens and villages caused by Saturday’s volcanic eruption.
Madang Governor Peter Yama and Bogia MP Robert Naguri were working with government agencies to send assistance to the people.
Yama immediately has mobilised the provincial administration team to send food to the islanders.
He said Prime Minister Peter O’Neill had assured him that a Defence Force team would be sent to help government officials.
“I am deeply saddened about what happened but I want to assure the people of Manam that I am in control and coordinating with the prime minister and authorities so that
they get relief supplies,” he said.
The provincial government has arranged a ship to transport food and relief supplies. It is expected to arrive today.
Iabu local level government president Kenny Boli said the gardens had been destroyed by volcanic ashes.
He said the islanders had refused to leave the island for Bogia and wanted to remain on the island.
Most of the affected people had been moved to Jogari to stay with relatives.