PH to foreign militaries: Thank you for Yolanda aid

MANILA, Philippines – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr conveyed the Philippines’ gratitude to chiefs of foreign militaries for their help in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) a year ago.

Catapang was in Brunei Darussalam last week to attend the annual Chief of Defense Conference 2014, a gathering of military chiefs that aims to discuss regional security challenges and enhance security cooperation. 

It was also the perfect time for the Philippines to thank the foreign militaries who rushed to help in the aftermath of monster typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) that flattened parts of central Philippines.

The Philippines marked the first year since the typhoon struck on Saturday, November 8. (READ: Soldiers of the world deployed for Haiyan victims)

Catapang told Rappler he thanked the chiefs of the foreign militaries during bilateral meetings with them for the humanitarian assistance and disaster response. 

“It was unprecented in terms of international response to a disaster. Ang dami talaga (it was a lot),” recalled retired General Roy Deveraturda, the former chief of AFP Central Command in charge of the Yolanda areas.

Even China, although belatedly, set aside maritime disputes with the Philippines and deployed military personnel to assist. (READ: China sends rescuers to PH after criticism over aid)

Militaries are always counted on to step in during calamities. They have the organization, assets, mobility, and training to lead rescue and relief efforts in the toughest disaster areas.

The meeting in Brunei was jointly hosted by the US Pacific Command and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces. Other participating militaries include Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The United Kingdom, France, China, New Zealand, Australia, and Japan have also joined this year’s conference. 

They discussed emerging global security challenges today – including terrorism, transnational crimes, and man-made and natural calamities – and how these can be addressed collectively. – Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com