US Military Delivers Storm Aid in Northern Luzon

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The United States military has deployed aircraft to Northern Luzon to support relief efforts in the wake of back-to-back storms and intensified monsoon rains. The mission was launched at the request of the Philippine government and in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

US Indo-Pacific Command has deployed Marine Corps and Air Force Osprey aircraft, along with Air Force MC-130Js, to assist in delivering essential supplies to isolated communities. On July 30 and 31, American aircraft joined AFP-led operations, airlifting 600 family food packs and emergency items provided by the Philippines’ Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) from Clark Air Base to Basco in the Batanes province.

The US military’s support will continue in the coming days. An additional 5,700 food packs, also supplied by the DSWD, are scheduled for delivery to storm-hit areas.

According to the US Embassy in Manila, American personnel and aircraft remain available to support further missions, ensuring aid is delivered where it is most needed.

The joint effort involves multiple Philippine agencies, including the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the Office of Civil Defense, and the DSWD. The World Food Programme (WFP) is also participating in the operation, using $250,000 (₱13.8 million) in funding from the US Department of State to move more than 47,700 food packs to affected parts of Ilocos Norte.

In a recent statement, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said, “The United States stands shoulder to shoulder with our Filipino allies, especially in responding to disasters. We are grateful to the combined relief and rescue teams who have been working tirelessly on the ground to deliver emergency assistance to affected residents.”

This latest initiative highlights the strategic cooperation between the US and the Philippines in regional security and humanitarian response efforts.