CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — The 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army has ramped up its disaster response and recovery operations in the Bicol region in the aftermath of Typhoon Kristine.
As of October 27, the 8ID, in partnership with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 8 and other agencies, has been actively delivering critical aid to the hardest-hit communities. Currently, 20 personnel from the 8ID are working alongside local governments in Camarines Sur to distribute relief supplies.
In a recent operation, three trucks transported 1,400 food packs, 1,400 boxes of drinking water, and 1,000 boxes of biscuits to barangays in Minalabac. Additionally, five watercraft were used to distribute 209 food packs to residents of Sitio Inginan, Barangay Bagongbong.
The relief efforts also focus on providing clean drinking water. The task force delivered 180 jugs of potable water to Barangay Ilaur Sur, Albay, and coordinated the transport of additional water and essential supplies from Bicol International Airport to regional warehouses. So far, 1,300 water units, 100 family water filtration kits, and 3,481 non-food items have been distributed to affected families.
To assist communication for impacted residents, RDRRMC 8, with support from the DICT, has set up a free Wi-Fi hub at Legazpi City’s Old Airport.
Brigadier General Perfecto Peñaredondo, Acting Commander of the 8ID, emphasized the Army’s commitment to the relief mission. “We stand united with our communities, working closely with local authorities to provide essential support,” he said.
The 8ID remains in constant coordination with partner agencies and local officials to ensure aid reaches those most affected by Typhoon Kristine. | via The Samar Chronicle
