QUEZON CITY (PIA) – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said its assets have remained at the forefront of disaster response as the country faced the onslaught of successive strong storms particularly Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi) which battered several areas over the weekend.
“The PAF’s proactive measures demonstrate its unwavering commitment to serving the Filipino people during times of crisis,” PAF Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño, said, adding that the Air Force remains vigilant and prepared to take action as needed.
Parreño placed air assets on standby alert for humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in connection with typhoon Pepito, including the following:
• Transport Aircraft: C-130, C-295, F-27, NC-212i
• Utility Helicopters: Huey II, Super Huey, B-205A, UH-1H, S-70i Black Hawk
• Search and Rescue Helicopters: S-76A, W-3A Sokol
Also, Tactical Operations Groups (TOGs) across the country have activated their Disaster Response Task Unit (DRTU) teams, which remain on standby alert to provide immediate HADR operations as required.
The PAF said its Tactical Operations Group 8 – Tacloban (TOG8) deployed two DRTU teams to Oras, Eastern Samar, and Catarman, Northern Samar.
These deployments are part of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) VIII Advance Composite Team, ensuring swift response to the needs of affected communities, it pointed out
Meanwhile, its Tactical Operations Group 4 (TOG4) conducted pre-emptive evacuation operations in Lucena City in coordination with the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Utilizing KM450 and M939 vehicles, TOG 4 rescuers safely transported 31 senior citizens, one adult, and two children to West 1 Elementary School in Barangay Iyam, Lucena City.
“The Philippine Air Force reaffirms its steadfast commitment to safeguarding lives and properties. Through close coordination with local authorities, the PAF ensures the effective delivery of relief and recovery efforts to affected communities,” Parreño emphasized. (PIA DMD)
