CATBALOGAN CITY (September 25, 2025) — The Philippine Army has placed its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) units on high alert as Severe Tropical Storm Opong moves toward the country’s eastern seaboard, threatening parts of Bicol and Eastern Visayas.
As of September 25, 2025, the Army has mobilized 149 Disaster Response Teams (DRTs) composed of 1,946 personnel — including active-duty soldiers, reservists, and members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) — for possible deployment under the 8th and 9th Infantry Divisions, which cover areas directly in the storm’s projected path.
In addition, 1,610 personnel across various Army units in Luzon have been placed on red alert to augment rescue, relief, and recovery efforts if needed.
To ensure coordinated disaster response operations, Army personnel have been embedded in the command centers of Provincial and Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs), working in tandem with partner agencies and local government units.
The Army is also continuing relief operations in Northern Luzon, where communities are still reeling from the impact of Super Typhoon Nando earlier this week. Eight response teams with 81 personnel and three military trucks from the 5th Infantry Division have been deployed to support ongoing recovery efforts.
Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete emphasized the military’s commitment to disaster response.
“As an integral part of your dedicated Army, our HADR units are ready to provide essential support and immediate assistance to communities affected by these calamities,” Nafarrete said.
The Army urged the public to remain vigilant and follow advisories from authorities as Opong continues to intensify offshore. (via Ricky Bautista)
