MANILA, Philippines – The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) will deploy one Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) C-130 transport aircraft “at the request of the Philippine Government” to aid in humanitarian efforts for communities severely affected by Tropical Storm Kristine.
In a news release shared by the Embassy of Singapore in the Philippines, the SAF confirmed that the RSAF C-130 aircraft will be deployed to the Philippines and will be providing airlift support to deliver aid supplies to affected areas in the country.
During an interview at Villamor Air Base, Singapore Ambassador Constance See said, “Friends support friends.”
“Our humanitarian support underscores the defense and HADR [Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief] cooperation, and the enduring friendship and partnership between Singapore and the Philippines,” Ambassador See added.
The Ambassador also reiterated Singapore’s support for recovery efforts of the Philippines after Severe Tropical Storm Kristine pounded different parts of the country with torrential rain showers and strong winds in recent days, particularly CALABARZON and Bicol region, resulting in massive floodings and landslides in severely affected areas.
As of Saturday, such areas still remain unpassable to all types of vehicles, making rescue and delivery of humanitarian aid a challenge.
In an interview on Special on Saturday (SOS) program hosted by Raymund Dadpaas, Office of Civil Defense Spokesperson Edgar Posadas confirmed that the death toll due to Super Typhoon Kristine as of Oct. 26 has reached 81, while 4.2 million individuals remain affected due to the aftermath of the storm.
“We are committed to supporting the Philippines in its recovery efforts, and we hope that those affected receive timely aid as they work toward rebuilding their lives,” Ambassador See mentioned.
Meanwhile, the SAF said that its contributions underscore the warm and friendly bilateral and defence ties and close Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) cooperation between Singapore and the Philippines.
