MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlsson and expressed his gratitude to the American government for aiding Filipinos affected by recent calamities in Mindanao.
During the envoy’s courtesy call in Malacañang last Tuesday, February 13, the chief executive extended the country’s thanks for the emergency assistance sent by the US to communities damaged by the massive floods and landslides in the southern region, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Washington D.C. ordered the deployment of two C-130s from the Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), as well as teams from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG). This rapid response from the US government shows their commitment to providing aid in times of crisis.
Apart from these, the US government has also sent $1.25 million in emergency support. This financial assistance will go a long way in helping affected communities recover and rebuild.
“There’s so much that can be done more efficiently through the mechanism that exists… but sometimes you just need an extra push and it is also a good demonstration of how good the alliance can deliver,” Carlson was quoted as saying. The strong alliance between the Philippines and the United States allows for effective collaboration in times of need.
Marcos, for his part, cited the importance of Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites for disaster relief and response, as he encouraged the American official to make full use of those facilities, the PCO said. The utilization of these sites will enhance the speed and efficiency of disaster response efforts.
The President traveled to Mindanao last week to personally assess the situation in Davao and distribute P265 million worth of financial assistance to the displaced residents because of the rains caused by the shear line and a low-pressure area (LPA). This hands-on approach demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the affected population.
“The damage will still have to be assessed and then we will then have to make a plan, get it funded,” Marcos had said. The assessment of the damage is crucial in formulating an effective recovery plan and securing the necessary funding to support the rebuilding efforts.
In conclusion, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his gratitude to the United States for their prompt and substantial aid in response to the calamities in Mindanao. The collaboration between the two countries highlights the strength of their alliance and the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis. The financial assistance and deployment of resources from the US will greatly contribute to the recovery and rebuilding of the affected communities. As the assessment of the damage continues, the government remains committed to formulating a comprehensive plan and securing the necessary funding to support the long-term recovery efforts.
Source: The Manila Times
