PH humanitarian assistance team sent to quake-hit Myanmar

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines sent a humanitarian assistance team to help in earthquake-stricken Myanmar on Tuesday, April 1.

The first batch of contingent, composed of 58 members, departed Villamor Air Base in Pasay City using two C-130 aircrafts. Another batch comprised of 33 members will leave on Wednesday.

According to the Philippine Air Force (PAF), the 91-member contingent will be deployed in Myanmar for two weeks.

The contingent brought search and rescue equipment and medical supplies.

“These personnel are ready to perform life-saving operations, provide medical assistance, and deliver critical aid throughout the mission,” the PAF said in a statement.

“This mission affirms the Philippine government's dedication to humanitarian assistance, reinforcing our nation's commitment to swift disaster response and regional cooperation,” it added.

A magnitude 7.7 tremor struck Myanmar on Friday, killing at least 1,000 people and leveling structures.