Death Toll in Philippine Storms Rises To 27

Manila, 15 Jan (ONA) --- At least 27 people have died in storms across the Philippines this month, authorities said, as forecasters warned of continued heavy rains.

Since the start of the year, at least three storms have killed 27 people across the Philippines, the civil defence office said in a report issued today.

Eleven people were reported injured and three are missing.

More than 83,000 people are sheltering in evacuation centres, according to the civil defence office, and over 1,200 houses have been damaged by floodwaters and heavy rains.

---Ends/Thuraiya/AG