By Junex Doronio
MANILA – The saying that certain times “try men’s souls” has proven true once again as Typhoon Kristine’s devastation impacted all of Luzon and many parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. In response, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia have pledged to deploy air assets to support the Philippine government’s relief and aid efforts.
Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator and Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno revealed that these four countries committed to providing C-130 aircraft, large helicopters, and other air assets to help deliver relief supplies to the communities affected by Typhoon Kristine.
“‘Yung pakikipagtulungan sa atin ng mga ibang bansa, namely… Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, formal na ‘yan. Magpadala rin sila ng air assets,” Nepomuceno said at the Saturday News Forum held at Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City.
He added that while the Philippines has adequate air assets, the country remains open to “any additional help” from international partners.
“Any additional help is a sign of solidarity with our partners,” Nepomuceno stated.
Beyond these four Southeast Asian neighbors, Taiwan also expressed its willingness to send aircraft to aid in the Philippines’ relief operations.
As of Saturday morning, 81 fatalities have been reported following Typhoon Kristine’s onslaught.