By Martin Sadongdong The Philippine Navy’s naval special operations group (NAVSOG) distributed rice to some 260 families living in the Baseco compound along the Pasig River in Tondo Manila. Philippine Navy (MANILA BULLETIN) This assistance supports the government’s social amelioration program to cushion the impact of the socio-economic crisis spawned by the COVID-19 pandemic. Rear Admiral Loumer Bernabe, commander of the Philippine Fleet, said the initiative was in coordination with the AFP Leadership and Development Center (AFPLDC) and in partnership with individual donors. He said it also served as a "test run" for possible means to help the poorest of the poor communities along coastal and riverside areas in times of crisis using Navy assets. "Not only the NAVSOG but the whole PN assets are readily available to help the government in its effort to address the impact of this COVID-19 in the country," he said. The PN's special operators utilized four inflatable boats to thread the Pasig River and distribute sacks of rice to the families settling in the area using 10-foot pole hooks to extend their reach. Bernabe said the Navy supports the “whole-of-nation” approach of the government to fight COVID-19 by helping not only to contain the spread of the virus but also implementing initiatives that would mitigate the social, economic and security impacts of the pandemic. "We will continue to fight this unseen enemy and serve our kababayan in this crisis," he said.