PH humanitarian team returning from ‘successful’ Myanmar mission

The Philippine Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent (PIAHC) is scheduled to return to the country on Monday, April 14, after providing essential support to victims in Myanmar, which was devastated by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake two weeks ago.

- By MARTIN SADONGDONG

The contingent, comprised of 89 personnel from various agencies, will be welcomed in a formal ceremony at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Monday, April 14, in honor of their service, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) declared Sunday, April 13.

“I honor your courage and compassion to serve. As a Filipino, I am immensely proud of each of you for being ready to help our neighbors in their time of need,” OCD Administrator, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said, emphasizing the team's successful completion of their mission.

“The PIAHC’s logistical preparations are in place, ensuring an organized and smooth return. As they prepare to board the C-130 aircraft for their journey home, the contingent reflects on a mission marked by collaboration and compassion, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity that defines the One ASEAN, One Response initiative,” he added.

The team includes urban search and rescue units from the Philippine Army (PA), Philippine Air Force (PAF), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).