Filipino, US troops deliver relief to Batanes post-super typhoon

Filipino troopers from the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) and the U.S. III Marine Expeditionary Force are continuously delivering essential relief supplies to communities in Batanes affected by Super Typhoon "Julian."

This operation, supported by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), began on Saturday, October 5.

U.S. aircraft are transporting relief goods from Ilocos to Batanes due to runway limitations at Basco Airport.

At least 1,000 family food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), 1,000 shelter repair kits from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), 2,500 tarpaulin sheets from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and 1,000 kitchen sets from IOM have been delivered.

The Philippine Air Force had previously utilized a C-130 aircraft to transport 15,000 pounds of vital supplies to Basco, Batanes.

Both Batanes and Ilocos Norte have been declared under a state of calamity following the typhoon's devastation.

NOLCOM commander, Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca thanked the continued support of the U.S. in these relief efforts, stating, "We sincerely thank our U.S. allies for their swift response and assistance."