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PAF airlifts Covid vaccines to isolated islands in Eastern Samar

Philippines | National

PAF airlifts Covid vaccines to isolated islands in Eastern Samar

By Marie Tonette Marticio

TACLOBAN CITY – In support of the national government's campaign, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) delivered coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccines using S70i Black Hawk helicopters to the historic islands of Suluan and Homonhon in Guiuan, Eastern Samar Thursday, June 16.

The airlift was in response to the Department of Health (DOH)-Region 8’s (Eastern Visayas) request to assist them in administering booster shots to the residents of the two islands.

Capt. Ryan Layug, 8th Infantry Division (ID) spokesperson, said the first destination was Suluan, the easternmost island. It was the first island that team of European explorer Ferdinand Magellan set foot on in the country in 1521.

The second destination was Homonhon Island, which has several barangays dominated by nickel mining.

Layug said that Suluan is two hours from Guiuan by boat while Homonhon is an hour away. Sea travel is rough, especially in the afternoon.

The PAF brought primary and booster shots for children and adults on the islands.

8th ID commander Major Gen. Edgardo de Leon commended officers and personnel of the Tactical Operations Group (TOG) 8 Magellan for being reliable and steadfast in support of Joint Task Force Storm's cause.

"TOG 8 has always been a dependable partner. In our campaign against terrorism, in times of disaster, and even in our fight against this pandemic. We also take this opportunity to thank President Duterte for modernizing the AFP. It helped us better defend and serve our people," De Leon said.

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