Philippines President Benigno Aquino says the death toll from Friday's typhoon may be lower than first thought. In an interview with CNN, he said the number of 10,000 killed was too high and the figure was more likely up to 2,500. The UN says more than 11 million people are believed to have been affected and some 673,000 displaced. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has put the official death toll at 1,833. The number of injured stands at 2,623 with 84 listed as missing.

The relief operation is being stepped up, but many are still without aid. Nearly every house has either been flattened or left without roofs or windows. People are living amid the sodden debris that was once their homes. The airport, while badly battered, is functioning. Aid officials say despite the increased aid effort, many survivors still badly need food, water and shelter.