US aircraft aiding PH in cyclone relief, delivering supplies to affected areas

US military aircraft, including CV-22 Osprey planes and MC-130J Hercules transport aircraft, are aiding the Philippine government in delivering aid to communities affected by recent tropical cyclones and habagat.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. confirmed that US Marine Corps and Air Force V-22 Ospreys and MC-130J Hercules aircraft have been deployed from Clark Air Base to deliver relief items, with 600 family food packs airlifted on July 30 and 31.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo stated that both rotary and fixed-wing US aircraft are stationed at a local air base for humanitarian aid missions coordinated by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The operations, which continue in the coming days, have airlifted emergency relief items to Basco, Batanes, with ground support provided by PAF personnel.

Beyond immediate response efforts, the AFP maintains a nationwide posture for sustained operations, including over 12,455 personnel and various land mobility assets, Philippine Air Force aircraft, and naval vessels positioned across commands.

These collaborative missions not only expedite the delivery of vital supplies but also reaffirm the strong alliance between the Philippines and the United States under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), focusing on humanitarian and disaster relief efforts.