PH Navy deploys disaster response teams for 'Jolina', 'Kiko'

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 9, 2021): PH Navy deploys disaster response teams for 'Jolina', 'Kiko' (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

The Philippine Navy (PN) has activated its disaster response and recovery teams (DDRTs) to help communities affected by Typhoons Jolina and Kiko.

In a statement Thursday, Navy spokesperson, Commander Benjo Negranza said these DRRTs, composing of the Naval Task Force (NTF) 83, were earlier deployed in Marikina City due to the heavy rains brought by "Jolina".

"NTF 83 has been organized since September 6. Its deployment is also in preparation for the imminent impact of the potential Super Typhoon Kiko as it moves closer to the eastern part of the country. They are composed of fleet and marine forces from (the) Manila and Cavite area and are equipped with rubber boats, trucks and other necessary rescue and mobility equipment," he added.

Negranza also said other PN operating forces in Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, and Cebu have also ensured the preparedness of their respective disaster response and recovery teams for humanitarian assistance and disaster response deployment.

"The PN always stands ready to render necessary assistance and services to the Filipino people especially in times of disasters, calamities, and emergencies through its fully-equipped and deployable DRRTs," he added.

As this developed, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reminded all DRRMCs to continue monitoring weather developments and implement preparedness measures.

The NDRRMC also advised the public to monitor weather updates, take precautionary measures, heed evacuation notices issued by their local government units and follow warnings and advisories alongside the observance of minimum health standards for protection against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1153010