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Feds fast-tracking Philippines' immigration

Last Updated: Thursday, October 1, 2009 | 4:47 PM ET

CBC News

A man transports his child in a basin through floodwaters brought on by Typhoon Ketsana in San Pedro Laguna, south of Manila, on Thursday. (John Javellana/Reuters)

The federal government is fast-tracking immigration for residents in the Philippines who were significantly affected by Typhoon Ketsana, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney says.

"I would like to express my deepest sympathy and support for the people of the Philippines affected by this terrible disaster," Kenney said in a statement Thursday.

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney says the federal government is fast-tracking immigration for residents in the Philippines who were affected by Typhoon Ketsana. (John Woods/Canadian Press)

"This government is moving quickly to reunite Canadians and permanent residents with their families by extending a welcome to those who wish to come to Canada."

Temporary residence applicants will be given priority processing by the visa office in Manila provided they demonstrate they have been significantly affected by the typhoon, Kenney said.

People who have adversely been affected by the typhoon and whose applications are already being processed should notify the Citizenship and Immigration Canada call centre at 1-888-242-2100.

This includes applicants already in Canada or those who have sponsored family members in the Philippines. New sponsorship applications should have "Philippines" prominently written on the mailing envelope.

These new measures are on top of up to $5 million in humanitarian assistance for victims of Typhoon Ketsana announced by International Co-operation Minister Beverley Oda earlier this week.

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Philippines flood death toll rises to 240

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