By Priam Nepomuceno
MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Sunday announced that its air units have mounted a rapid damage assessment and needs analysis (RDANA) and relief operations in areas in Northern Luzon that are still reeling from the effects of recent typhoons.
In a statement, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the Tactical Operations Group 2 of the Tactical Operations Wing Northern Luzon, in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense Regional Office 2 and the Cagayan Valley Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, led the operation on Nov. 15.
“The PAF, utilizing the ‘Black Hawk’ helicopter, conducted RDANA to assess the extent of damage caused by the recent typhoons that hit the region. The RDANA will help identify priority areas for immediate relief and recovery operations,” she said.
On the same day, Castillo said the PAF delivered essential relief supplies to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas in Sta. Margarita, Baggao, Cagayan using “Black Hawk” helicopters deployed by the force’s Air Mobility Command.
A total of 470 boxes of family food packs and hygiene and sleeping kits from the Department of Social Welfare and Development were distributed to the communities of Sitio Valley Cove and Sitio Camunayan.
“Amidst the onslaught of the series of typhoons, the PAF remains committed to supporting humanitarian and disaster relief efforts and ensuring the safety and well-being of affected communities,” Castillo added. (PNA)
