MANILA: A presidential helicopter has been deployed to deliver critical relief supplies to communities affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, known internationally as Trami, according to the Philippine Air Force (PAF).
According to Philippines News Agency, the PAF mobilized the Bell 412 presidential helicopter on October 26 following a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The helicopter is aiding emergency relief operations in the Bicol region, specifically transporting goods from Tactical Operations Group 5 in Legazpi to the town of Libon in Albay. This mission is part of a broader effort to facilitate swift aid distribution to areas isolated by the storm’s impact. Additional PAF aircraft, including Black Hawk and Huey helicopters, have also been engaged in the relief mission.
The PAF emphasized in a statement that this operation underscores its commitment to utilizing all available air resources for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. President Marcos held a situation
briefing at the Naga City Hall on Saturday, where he assured continuous support to the affected communities in Bicol until normalcy is restored. He also announced that the Department of Health would deploy additional medical teams to bolster healthcare services in the region.
Since the onset of the storm, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has distributed over 277,000 family food packs nationwide to support those in need.