AFP, JUSMAG deliver relief supplies to Typhoon Julian-hit Batanes with US support

On Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) coordinated with Batanes' local government to provide assistance in response to Typhoon Julian.

Since then, Filipino troopers from the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) and U.S. III Marine Expeditionary Force have been delivering essential relief supplies to affected communities.

Typhoon Julian heavily devastated Batanes, prompting collaboration between the AFP and JUSMAG to distribute foreign disaster relief supplies efficiently, supported by USAID and USINDOPACOM.

Two US Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules aircraft arrived at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Saturday, carrying personnel and equipment from Okinawa, Japan. U.S. aircraft are continuously transporting relief goods from Ilocos to Batanes due to runway limitations at Basco Airport.

The relief efforts include the delivery of 1,000 family food packs, 1,000 shelter repair kits, 2,500 tarpaulin sheets, and 1,000 kitchen sets from various organizations such as DSWD, OCD, IOM, and USAID.

NOLCOM commander Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca thanked the U.S. for their swift response and assistance, highlighting the critical role of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in facilitating timely humanitarian aid.