Military conducts road, airport clearing operations in Eastern, Northern Samar

Photo via Naval Forces Central

MANILA — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang on Sunday said that military units in Eastern and Northern Samar, areas first battered by Typhoon “Ruby”, are now conducting road and airport clearing operations.

“Military units are now conducting MSR (main supply route) clearing operations North to South of Borongan City (Eastern Samar) and East to West of Catarman City (Northern Samar),” he added.

Catapang said this is being done to facilitate access to the airports located in two areas.

The AFP chief said the Cebu-based Central Command is deploying Air Force units, to assess whether these airports are undamaged and could accommodate rescue and relief aircraft.

Plans are afoot to transport these airports as the hubs for relief operations in the two provinces.

Catapang added that the BRP Benguet (LT-507), a Navy transport laden with relief supplies, will be immediately deployed to provide assistance to Leyte and Samar once the weather clears.

He also said that the Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division, commanded by Major Gen. Jet Velarmino, is now assessing the status of all road nets in his area of operation, to determine which of these are in need of clearing and repair.