Sunday, September 27, 2009 MANILA: Rescue teams are stepping up efforts to reach flood victims in the Philippines, where at least 72 people are feared to have died following torrential rains. Tropical Storm Ketsana set-off the worst flooding in decades in the capital Manila and nearby provinces. Defence Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said troops, police and civilian volunteers had rescued more than 4,000 people - many clinging to each other on roofs. More than 250,000 have been driven from their homes, officials say. Correspondents say the massive rescue was set to intensify as the weather began to clear and floodwaters began to recede on Sunday. But some reports estimate that 80% of the capital is still under water. The government has declared a "calamity" in Manila and 25 provinces, allowing access to emergency funds.
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