THE BRP Davao del SUR LD 602 is ready to depart for Batanes, carrying much-needed relief supplies for the victims of recent typhoons.
The naval vessel is currently awaiting favorable weather conditions to set sail, ensuring a safe journey to the affected communities.
Onboard the said navy vessel, a landing platform dock ship, is transporting over 100 tons of relief goods, including rice, food packs, hygiene kits, and construction materials. Notable cargo includes contributions from various agencies and organizations, such as:
- OCD Region 2: 11.75 tons of rice and family food packs
- PAGCOR: 8.60 tons of food and non-food packs
- Department of Health (DOH): 8.20 tons of hygiene kits
- Department of Agriculture (DA): 5.21 tons of rice and vegetable seeds
- Department of Transportation (LTO): 1.71 tons of assorted goods
- Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT): communication equipment
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR): 105.47 tons of assorted lumber
- TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation: 12.30 tons of corrugated GI sheets
- GMA Kapuso Foundation: 52.35 tons of assorted relief packs
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. commended the collective effort of the government, stating, “Today, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering the most needed help to our fellow Filipinos. This mission is a testament to the strength of our collaboration across government agencies and the private sector. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this vital effort, ensuring that no one is left behind during these challenging times.”
Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, the Civil Defense Administrator, emphasized the collaborative nature of this effort, stating, “This mission embodies the whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in responding to the needs of our countrymen affected by recent calamities. Together, we stand united in our commitment to uplift and support our fellow Filipinos during their time of need.”
Furthermore, this relief operation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s commitment to providing assistance through various means. “As the President has assured, help is on the way—by land, air, or sea. We are here to ensure that the needs of our citizens are met swiftly and efficiently,” added Undersecretary Nepomuceno.
The BRP Davao del SUR is poised to set sail for Basco, Batanes as soon as weather conditions allow, where local government units and community organizations are prepared to distribute the relief supplies to those most in need.