PAF continues relief ops for Mindanao quake victims

FILE: The PAF is working round the clock in providing air transportation of relief goods and other essential items to thousands of families affected by a series of earthquakes in Central and Eastern Mindanao. (Photo: Philippine Air Force/Facebook)

MANILA — Another Philippine Air Force (PAF) Lockheed C-130 “Hercules” cargo plane transported some 22,560 pounds of relief goods and items for the quake-affected communities in Mindanao on Monday.

Major Aristides Galang, PAF spokesperson, said the C-130 with tail number 4704 took off from Villamor Air Base in Pasay City and transported relief supplies to Cotabato and Davao on the same day.

“(The aircraft carried) a total of 22,560 lbs of cargo consisting of 32 tents, boxes of assorted medical supplies, blankets, and 200 folding beds,” Galang said in a statement Tuesday.

Additionally, a Bell 412 combat utility helicopter of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and 505th Search and Rescue Group’s Super “Huey” II conducted two relief operations sorties in Makilala, North Cotabato.

“The PAF is on full alert status and is working with other government agencies to provide the necessary humanitarian assistance and disaster response needed and is always ready to utilize its aircraft in transporting donations and relief goods,” Galang said.