Friday, April 3, 2015

Catapang inspects 1st Air Division for 'Chedeng' preparations

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 3): Catapang inspects 1st Air Division for 'Chedeng' preparations

With Typhoon "Chedeng" expected to make landfall within Northern Luzon, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang on Thursday visited Clark Air Base in Pampanga to inspect on the disaster preparedness and response capabilities of the 1st Air Division.

During his visit, Catapang was briefed by 1st Air Division commander Brig. Gen. John Oliviamor Estabillo on their disaster response preparations aside from getting a chance to inspect the unit's mobility and disaster response assets.

These equipment consist of rubber boats, chainsaws, tents, generators and portalet which are stored at the NDRRMC-HRD warehouse in Clark Air Base.

"Chedeng" is expected to hit Aurora and Isabela over the weekend.

As this develops, Catapang said units of the Northern Luzon Command, Southern Luzon Command, Central Command and Joint Task Force National Capital Region are already preparing its assets and personnel for "Chedeng".

He added that all these military outfits have accounted for all of their disaster response units including the attached mobility assets and rescue equipment.

"They have ensured there will be redundancy of communication systems just in case basic networks will be damaged and can no longer function. Strategic locations were also identified where troops may be prepositioned and still be able to render quick response when needed," the AFP chief stressed.

Along with other government agencies, Catapang said they have already identified areas prone to landslides and flooding, including those that are close to the coastlines and are at risk for possible storm surges.

“Let us give equal attention to tourists, both local and foreigners who are vacationing in these areas and who may be trapped in beach resorts,” Catapang emphasized.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=750087

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