AFP facilities in Catanduanes damaged by 'Nina'

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 26): AFP facilities in Catanduanes damaged by 'Nina'

Military facilities in Catanduanes sustained some damages during the recent onslaught of Typhoon "Nina" Sunday.

"Typhoon 'Nina' gained further strength before finally making landfall and hit Region 5 full force early evening yesterday (Dec. 25) at around 6:30 p.m. in the area of Bato, Catanduanes. AFP initial reports indicated substantial damage to numerous facilities, infrastructures and military installations in the island of Catanduanes. The 83rd Infantry Battalion located in the island reported that most of their facilities have been damaged," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said in a statement.

Padilla said that while there were some initial reports of injuries among military personnel in Catanduanes but these were all considered minor.

"There were no reported lost of lives as well. Troops said that they bore the brunt of 'Nina' from landfall till past midnight or early morning of Dec. 26 Brig. Gen. Danilo Isleta, the Assistant Division Commander of 9th Infantry Division in Naga said the winds were howling and were very very strong with heavy rain accompanying the winds. They also reported damages to a number of their division facilities & infrastructure," the AFP spokesperson said.

Initial damage assessment by various field units in coordination with the local government units is currently on progress.

Total damage will be forwarded to AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo as soon as assessments are completed.

"Likewise, most AFP units are now concentrating full force on clearing operations in their respective areas-of-responsibility to ensure vital roadways become passable for the movement of assistance to affected areas. Army, Air Force and Naval assets have been placed on standby ready for deployment as soon as weather conditions permit," Padilla added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=951028