The Philippine Army deployed some 400 soldiers to the Bicol region over the weekend to reinforce its personnel for disaster response operations amid the onslaught of tropical storm ‘Enteng.’
The Army’s 9th Infantry “Spear” Division (9ID) deployed its humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) teams with their equipment to help affected areas.
Philippine Army Spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala told Manila Standard these troops were composed of 42 teams with 399 personnel. “They are all on standby alert,” he said.
Briefings among teams were conducted prior to their deployment to the areas affected. The troops brought 77 vehicles and 1 rubber boat, according to Dema-ala.
The Army said damage and disruption caused by the storm were significantly minimized at present.
This was attributed to the readiness and coordinated efforts with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Provincial and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (PDRRMC and MDRRMC).
“The 9ID’s HADR teams remain committed to support recovery efforts and ensure the well-being of the affected communities,” Dema-ala noted.
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