CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has ramped up its nationwide humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) efforts as Tropical Storm “Kristine” continues to batter various parts of the country. Army, Air Force, and joint military units are on high alert, providing rescue and relief operations to affected communities.
Philippine Army HADR teams have commenced rescue and relief efforts, focusing on flood-affected families in the Bicol Region. Soldiers, alongside local disaster responders, are working tirelessly to assist residents displaced by the severe flooding. Relief efforts have also been extended to other storm-hit areas, ensuring that the needs of calamity-stricken communities are addressed swiftly.
Meanwhile, in Batanes, 14 Philippine Air Force (PAF) Reservists took proactive steps to help reinforce homes and secure structures ahead of the storm’s landfall. Their disaster preparedness initiatives, carried out in collaboration with other uniformed services and local residents, highlight their dedication to supporting 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.
The AFP 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.
