By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – The Philippine Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent will return home Monday after its deployment to Myanmar, where it extended emergency response support following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28.
Composed of 89 personnel from various government agencies and private partners, the contingent will be welcomed at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, according to a news release over the weekend.
The team is composed of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, Department of Health, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Emergency Response Team, Energy Development Corporation, and Apex Mining Co., Inc.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. earlier conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commendation to the team.
OCD Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, who oversaw the send-off on April 1, is expected to lead the welcome reception.
“I honor your courage and compassion to serve. As a Filipino, I am immensely proud of each of you for being ready to help our neighbors in their time of need,” Nepomuceno said in a statement.
The contingent concluded its operations on April 12.
A congratulatory gathering that day was attended by Philippine Embassy in Myanmar Charge d’Affaires Angelito Nayan, who recognized the team’s service and resilience during the mission.
The Philippines facilitated the delivery of 19,458 pounds or 8,844.63 kilograms of humanitarian aid, including hygiene kits and tarpaulins donated by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance, using C-130 aircraft provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The mission is part of the “One ASEAN, One Response” initiative aimed at strengthening regional disaster response and solidarity.
So far, over 3,600 people have been reported dead due to the earthquake. (With Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
