US Troops Diversify to Support Relief Operations in the Philippines
The United States is increasing its assistance to the Philippines in the aftermath of the landslide disaster in Southern Leyte, where an estimated 1,400 people remain buried. Brigadier General Mastin Robeson announced that approximately 2,000 US soldiers, who were initially participating in joint military exercises in the Philippines, will be diverted to the disaster site to support rescue efforts. The remaining soldiers will continue with the military training with their Filipino counterparts in Sulu province. This aid comes as the Balikatan joint exercises between the US and the Philippines were formally kicked off on Monday, with some 2,200 Philippine troops taking part.
Key Takeaways:
- Approximately 2,000 US soldiers will be diverted from joint military exercises to support relief operations in Southern Leyte, where 1,400 people remain buried after a landslide disaster.
- The remaining 3,000 US soldiers will continue participating in military training with Filipino counterparts in Sulu province.
- 200 US soldiers are already in Tacloban, the nearest city to the disaster site, to assist in disaster relief operations.
- Seventeen US military helicopters have been deployed to the province to transport rescue and relief equipment, food, and medical supplies.
Statistics:
- Estimated 1,400 people remain buried in the landslide disaster in Southern Leyte.
- Approximately 2,000 US soldiers will be diverted to support relief operations.
- 2,200 Philippine troops are participating in the Balikatan joint exercises.
- 200 US soldiers are already assisting in disaster relief operations in Tacloban.
- Seventeen US military helicopters have been deployed to the disaster-stricken province.
Sources:
- Xinhua via COMTEX, February 20, 2006
- Copyright 2006 XINHUA NEWS AGENCY