WESCOM’s disaster response team renders humanitarian assistance

By Rene V. Carbayas

ISABELA CITY, Basilan – Western Command directed its disaster response task units to render humanitarian assistance and disaster response to the victims of Tropical Cyclone Pablo (Bopha).

In a press release, the 6^th Civil Relations Group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines disclosed that the deployment of its team is part of carrying out the AFP’s mandate during disasters and natural calamities.

“We know the risk we face not only in defense of our people against security threats, but also in providing life support to victims from nature's wrath,” WESCOM Commander LtGen Juancho M Sabban said.

Chief of the Command Operations Center CDR Rommel Oropesa PN reported that WESCOM has already provided transportation assistance in bringing relief goods to the affected areas in coordination with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council.

M-35 trucks and BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS-35) were also used to ferry the goods.

“Responding to the needs of our people remains a call of duty for each and every one of us that is why our disaster response teams exist to quickly take action to the needs of the victims,” CDR Oropesa stressed.          

Pablo entered WESCOM area of responsibility, particularly in areas in northern Palawan that affected communities in El Nido, Taytay, Roxas, Culion, Coron, Araceli, and Cagayancillo. (JPA/RVC/WESCOM/PIA9-ZBST)