PAF deploys helicopters with intl support for Kristine relief

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is deploying multiple helicopter units, including a presidential Bell 412 and S70i Blackhawk helicopters, along with international support from Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Taiwan to deliver essential relief supplies to communities affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in Bicol.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. informed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that the PAF is mobilizing all available rotary assets and maintaining an 'air bridge' for continuous relief transport, with assistance from international allies.

On Sunday, Oct. 27, military helicopters from the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing of the Presidential Security Command delivered around 1,200 sacks and boxes of relief goods to Bula in Camarines Sur and Libon in Albay, assisting approximately 4,800 individuals.

The PAF also deployed a Huey helicopter earlier, while the Philippine Army distributed around 1,100 food packs and 18 boxes of drinking water in Camarines Sur, one of the hardest-hit areas by Kristine.

International assistance includes C-130 aircraft from Singapore and Malaysia, as well as a C-295 aircraft from Brunei, which have significantly bolstered relief efforts and underscored regional cooperation during this critical period.