The Philippine Army deployed troops to assist in disaster response and relief efforts in communities battered by “Typhoon” Odette in the Visayas.
The 61st Infantry Battalion provided manpower and transportation assistance for evacuation and road clearing operation at the municipality of Miagao, Iloilo together with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and Miagao Rural Health Unit.
Meanwhile, the 79th Infantry Battalion, which has jurisdiction over Northern Negros, mobilized its Disaster Response and Relief Operation (DRRO) teams to help stranded passengers; rescue and relief efforts; and clearing operations in typhoon-stricken areas.
Reservists from the Army Reserve Command’s 6th and 7th Regional Community Defense Groups (RCDGs) are also conducting disaster relief efforts in various areas battered by “Odette,” the strongest tropical cyclone to hit the country this year.
The Philippine Army has issued a directive to its units on Dec. 15 to prepare disaster response teams and coordinate closely with Local Government Units (LGUs) and other government agencies for humanitarian assistance and disaster-response missions amid the threat of Typhoon “Odette.” – bny
