The Philippines will receive critical air support from neighboring Southeast Asian countries Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia to bolster relief efforts in the wake of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami), according to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).
OCD Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno confirmed that these nations have committed to providing air assets, including C-130 aircraft and large helicopters, to aid in transporting essential relief supplies to communities impacted by Kristine. “Their assistance shows solidarity from our regional partners,” Nepomuceno stated.
Singapore’s Armed Forces (SAF) has already dispatched a C-130, expected to arrive at Villamor Airbase on Saturday afternoon to help distribute humanitarian supplies. Taiwan has also expressed interest in lending air assets to further support the Philippines’ ongoing aid operations.
As of Saturday, the death toll from Kristine has reached 81, with the majority of fatalities reported in CALABARZON and Bicol Region.