QUEZON CITY (PIA) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has emphasized its ramped-up nationwide humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) efforts during the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami).
The Philippine Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, and joint military units were put on high alert and provided rescue and relief operations to affected communities, it said.
In the Bicol region, the Army HADR teams focused on flood-affected families and worked tirelessly alongside local disaster responders in assisting residents displaced by the severe flooding.
The teams also extended relief efforts to other storm-hit areas, ensuring swift address to the needs of calamity-stricken communities.
In Batanes, 14 Philippine Air Force (PAF) Reservists took proactive steps to help reinforce homes and secure structures ahead of the storm’s landfall. These disaster preparedness initiatives were carried out in collaboration with other uniformed services and residents for the HADR operations.
In Albay, PAF’s Tactical Operations Group 5 and Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) teams rescued families in flooded areas in Brgy. Sta Cruz, Libon on October 23.
PAF rescuers also assisted an elderly person stranded at Ayala Mall in Legazpi, ensuring their safe evacuation to the Daraga Covered Court.
In Samar, the Disaster Response Team of the 63rd Infantry Battalion of Joint Task Force Storm was deployed to manage rising floodwaters and provide immediate assistance to affected residents in Basey, where continuous rainfall was recorded.
As the units and personnel continue to provide assistance to the affected communities and individuals, the AFP said it remains committed to delivering swift and coordinated disaster response efforts across the country, working alongside local governments and other agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected citizens. (PIA DMD)
