Divers are some of the strongest advocates for marine conservation, but being a environmentally responsible diver requires taking the necessary steps to reduce your impact on marine life. Learn about the different things you can do to be an eco-friendly diver. Click here. 

In 2012, I was fortunate to have had the chance to work in the Philippines as a marine biologist for Coral Cay Conservation in Southern Leyte. The local communities of Southern Leyte has some of the most hospitable and friendliest people I have ever met. Many of them earn very little, but they taught me the true value of happiness, family, community, and pride. I was therefore mortified to hear that many of my friends in the Philippines have recently been hit by one of the strongest storms ever recorded! 

Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines shortly before dawn on Friday, bringing with it gusts of wind that reached 379km/h (235 mph), waves as high as 15m (45ft), and up to 400mm (15.75 inches) of rain. Among the worst-hit areas were the eastern island of Leyte and the coastal city of Tacloban, which saw buildings flattened in a storm surge. These areas were already struggling to recover from a deadly 7.3-magnitude earthquake last month, where about 5,000 people are still living in tents.

The latest report from the Philippines' Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council confirmed 138 deaths as of 10:00 GMT today, but the Red Cross estimates the death toll of up to 10,000. In addition, almost 350,000 people had been reported displaced.  

Filipinos are known worldwide for their strong community ties, but it is now up to us to come together and help them. Please give a donation to the Red Cross Philippines at http://www.redcross.org.ph/donate. 
(Note: CAN$1 = 41.18 Philippine pesos)