MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed gratitude on Tuesday to the United States government for extending emergency assistance to communities affected by the recent calamity in Mindanao.

The President thanked the US government during the courtesy call in Malacañang of US Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Loss Carlson.

Carlson told President Marcos that Washington is pleased to bring two C-130s from Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), although it is not the cheapest or the easiest way to deliver foreign assistance.

“But when you ask and you need it we are here. Teams come from USAID, JUSMAG and our team from INDOPACOM… just how impressive your own DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) is in coordinating the relief supplies,” Carlson said.

“There’s so much that can be done more efficiently through the mechanism that exists… but sometimes you just need an extra push and it is also a good demonstration of how good the alliance can deliver,” Carlson added.

And in addition to the aid delivered by two US C-130s, the US government has also extended US$1.25 million emergency support, Carlson said, noting the success of the administration in delivering much-needed aid to the people highlights the value of the Philippine-US alliance.

For his part, President Marcos cited the importance of Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites for disaster relief and response, as he encouraged the American official to make full use of those facilities.

The President traveled to Mindanao last week and extended PhP265 million worth of financial assistance to Davao region intended for the residents who were affected by the rains caused by shear line and low-pressure area.

The financial assistance was on top of the emergency fund transfer provided by the government to the affected families in the region. (PND)