One of the areas devastated by Tropical Strom Sendong (Washi) is foregoing its Christmas party in deference to victims affected by the cyclone.

Iligan City Mayor Lawrence Cruz said the funds for their party on Dec. 20 will go to help the victims affected by the floods that hit the area.

"Instead of our Christmas party on Dec. 20 we will spend the funds allocated for it to help the flood victims," he said in an interview on dzBB radio.

Earlier Saturday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said at least nine people were killed in the wake of flash floods there.

NDRRMC head Benito Ramos said the death toll from "Sendong" rose to at least 20 as of Saturday morning.

State weather forecasters expect "Sendong" to be the last cyclone to affect the country this year. — LBG, GMA News