AFP, US military conduct joint disaster relief drill at Clark Air Base

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the U.S. military conducted a joint simulation exercise at Clark Air Base on Saturday, August 2, to demonstrate rapid airlift capabilities for disaster relief.

Using MV-22 Osprey aircraft, the drill involved transporting family food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), showcasing the importance of interoperability and rapid response in humanitarian assistance.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., AFP Chief Romeo Brawner Jr., and U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson observed the exercise, which included a guided tour of the Osprey aircraft to highlight its utility for reaching communities in need.

Carlson emphasized support from USINDOPACOM in delivering aid to areas affected by recent floods, with 4,800 food packs transported so far using MV-22 and MC-130J aircraft.

Teodoro stressed the shared values between the Philippines and the United States, underscoring their commitment to preserving human life in disaster response efforts through enhanced HADR operations as part of ongoing security cooperation.