1,234 Southern Luzon Command troops on stand-by for possible HADR missions

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): 1,234 Southern Luzon Command troops on stand-by for possible HADR missions

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday placed on stand-by some 1,234 officers and enlisted personnel in the Southern Luzon Command for possible humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions in case Typhoon Ruby's landfall will have any adverse impact.

AFP 7th Civil Relations Group commander Major Emmanuel Garcia in a message to the PNA said that these personnel could also be deployed in the Central Command area in the Visayas should provinces there sustain more damage than those in Southern Luzon.

"These (personnel) should be shifted to the Central Command as the need arises," Garcia pointed out.

The official also added that all disaster response task units (DRTUs) in the Southern Luzon Command are now alerted for rescue missions related to the incoming typhoon.

Garcia said Matnog Port is now being secured by elements of the 31st Infantry Battalion and the 903rd Infantry Brigade as the port may be used a relief center in case the area will be hit by super typhoon Ruby.

He added that alternate routes for Bulan Port is now being secured.

Garcia said additional sealift vessels from Sangley Point, Cavite has been requested to augment other naval ships in Matnog.

The 7th Civil Relations Group commander also stated that coordination is now ongoing with the Department of Transportation and Communication and private shipping companies and lines to increase their frequency and number of vessels after the aftermath of the typhoon, to facilitate humanitarian and relief efforts.

Garcia also said they continue to monitor the situation on Mount Mayon.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=713207