MFA: 3 Singaporean students safe and have flown out of Philippines typhoon zone

It was only after three days of agonized waiting that their families finally heard from them on Monday. Speaking to The Straits Times on Monday evening, Ms Chong's younger sister, Amelia said: "Yes, we finally heard from my dearest sister Vanessa." Her sister had called their mother earlier to inform them that she was "safe with the Singapore Civil Defence Force" and at the Tacloban Airport.

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Here is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement:

Singapore's humanitarian assistance in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda)

The Singapore Government notes with concern the severity of the damage and human suffering wrought by Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda).

The Singapore government will make an additional donation of S$150,000 to support relief efforts in the Philippines. This is in addition to the S$50,000 pledged yesterday.

With the S$200,000 donation from the Singapore Government as seed money, the Singapore Red Cross will be launching a public appeal for cash donations to the victims of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda).

The monies will be used to provide clean water, medical and health services, shelter and non-food items such as blankets, sleeping mats and mosquito nets to the victims.

The Singapore Red Cross will also be sending a medical team to Tacloban. As a close friend and fellow ASEAN member state, Singapore stands by the Philippines during this difficult time.

In response to a press query, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson added, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been closely monitoring the situation in the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan and working closely with the relevant authorities and volunteer groups. The three Singaporean girls, Ms Eileen Heng, Ms Alyssa Chee and Ms Vanessa Chong, who were earlier uncontactable, have arrived safely in Manila, and were met by the staff of our Embassy. We hope to reunite the girls with their families as soon as possible."