The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine Air Force (PAF) delivered relief assistance to the province of Catanduanes as part of ongoing disaster response to help families affected by Super Typhoon “Pepito”.
Coast Guard personnel brought 3,000 family food packs on board BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406) from Port Area, Manila to Virac Port, Catanduanes on Nov. 22, the PCG said on Sunday, Nov. 24.
Each family food pack contained rice, canned goods, and other essential items.
BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) also remains anchored along the shore of Virac with 12,000 family food packs.
“We are committed to assisting those affected by the calamity and ensuring that they receive the help they need as quickly as possible. This collaborative effort highlights the strength of our partnership with other agencies in responding to emergencies and providing critical support to our fellow Bicolanos,” said Commodore Ivan Roldan, commander of Coast Guard District Bicol.
On the other hand, two C-130 aircraft were deployed by the PAF to transport 1,000 family food packs from the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City to Catanduanes on Nov. 22.
Another C-130 aircraft flew from Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu to deliver 200 water containers, 150 boxes of hygiene kits, and 250 pails of hygiene supplies.
The following day, a C-130 aircraft from Lapu-Lapu City brought 1,000 family food packs while a C-259 aircraft transported 100 boxes of family food packs to bolster relief efforts in the region.
“These ongoing operations highlight the PAF’s steadfast commitment to disaster response, ensuring timely assistance to affected communities and reinforcing its role as a vital partner in the nation’s recovery efforts,” Castillo said.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said the death toll from Pepito rose to 13 on Sunday while three others were still missing.
The number of affected persons due to the combined effects of Pepito, and tropical cyclones “Nika” and “Ofel” has reached 4.2 million.
The estimated cost of damage to infrastructure was P2.8 billion while damage to agriculture was pegged at P784 million.