PH military shifts to disaster response in areas hardest hit by Typhoon Rolly

The military shifts operations from internal security to disaster response in the Bicol region where Category 5 Typhoon Rolly (international name Goni) left a wide swath of destruction. NPAO

MANILA, Philippines—The military has shifted operations from internal security to disaster response in the Bicol region where Category 5 Typhoon Rolly (international name Goni) left a wide swath of destruction.

Capt. Jonathan Zata, Armed Forces of the Philippines public affairs chief, said Joint Task Force Bicolandia had shifted to “search, retrieval and rescue operations mode.”

He said the “shift of focus” from internal security to disaster response meant “all infantry battalions of the Philippine Army” in areas under the jurisdiction of the 9th Infantry Division in Bicol had been tapped for search, retrieval and rescue in coordination with local government units.

Zata said the AFP has deployed more than 5,000 men and 3,000 reservists and support forces for disaster response missions.

A C-130, two C-295 transport aircraft and five helicopters of the Philippine Air Force were helping in the humanitarian mission in Bicol region.

But AFP Chief Gen. Gilbert Gapay said while the military operations in the region shifted to disaster response, all units were ready for possible attacks by communist guerrillas.

He also ordered increased intelligence monitoring to thwart enemy attempts to disrupt the government’s disaster response efforts.

The Philippine Navy’s Naval Intelligence and Security Group Southern Luzon and Air Force’ 505th Search and Rescue Group conducted aerial inspection in Catanduanes, which bore the brunt of Rolly.

The Army’s 903rd Brigade also conducted a separate typhoon damage assessment in Catanduanes and relief operations in Sorsogon. The 565th Engineering Construction Battalion has also started relief operations in Camarines Sur.

TSB