The United States extends a generous hand to the Philippines, providing crucial humanitarian aid worth nearly ₱70 million ($1.25 million) to assist in the recovery of communities in Mindanao grappling with severe floods and landslides.
This assistance, orchestrated by the U.S. government, aims to expedite the delivery of vital supplies such as emergency food, shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene products to support communities in Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and Davao City.
Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Catholic Relief Services and Action Against Hunger, the aid initiative ensures equitable distribution to vulnerable groups, including single-parent families, persons with disabilities, pregnant and nursing mothers, the elderly, economically disadvantaged households, and indigenous communities.
In response to the Philippines’ plea for aid, the U.S. Department of Defense, led by the III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF), mobilizes logistical support, deploying two C-130s to facilitate the delivery of 15,000 food packs to affected families.
Collaborating with the Philippines Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the International Organization for Migration, the relief efforts also encompass emergency shelter provision for over 5,000 affected individuals.
Furthermore, support is extended to the World Food Programme, facilitating the transportation of food packs to 65,000 families facing hardship.
The recent “Declaration of Humanitarian Need” issued by the United States government on February 8 serves to bolster ongoing relief operations spearheaded by the Philippine government in Mindanao.
Ryan Washburn, USAID Mission Director, underscores the pride in forging partnerships with the Philippine government, ensuring that critical supplies reach the most vulnerable communities in their time of need, thus emphasizing the logistical backbone vital for efficient relief efforts.
