MANILA — Seasonal monsoon rains and a tropical storm off the coast of the Philippines have inflicted massive damage to homes and property, leaving hundreds of thousands in need.

“Our team is presently working day and night,” said Gilda Avedillo, program officer for Caritas Manila’s disaster risk reduction and management program.

She told CNA that despite the difficulties caused by the flooding, the grace of God and support of the local Church “keeps us energetic and happy to help the needy.”

Manila and surrounding areas have been hit by severe flooding over the past few days, as a powerful typhoon intensified the effects of the monsoon rains. Authorities say 60% of the capital is under water.

More than 300,000 people in the Manila area are estimated to be affected by the flooding.

Relief agencies and volunteers have already begun work to offer shelter and necessities to those who have been displaced by the floods.

Cardinal Louis Antonio Tagle of Manila has been personally monitoring and working with volunteers to coordinate relief efforts in his archdiocese.

“Let us console and help one another in little or big ways, in order to lessen the pain of those who have suffered amid this bad weather,” he said over the Manila archdiocesan Radio Veritas.

Relief activities have been ongoing since Aug. 19, Avedillo told CNA. She said aid workers currently are packing and delivering necessities to people in affected regions, many of whom are staying at evacuation centers. Priorities are food, clean water, clothing, blankets, sanitary items and basic medication.

Students from local schools are assisting as volunteers, Avedillo explained, adding that local support from the Navy and government agencies in helping transport people has been “overwhelming.”

“We now need more support and help for rehabilitation,” she said. “The local people have been very generous in supporting their time and their financial help.”

Despite the physical toll of disaster relief, Avedillo said the spirit of the Caritas relief workers remains strong.

She said, “The Holy Spirit is guiding us, and the continuous inspiration from Cardinal Tagle and Caritas director Father Anton Pascual keeps us moving, in spite of the fatigue.”