The Philippine Army (PA) has redirected its resources toward relief and rescue missions in Luzon after Super Typhoon Uwan’s devastation, following the suspension of military drills.
“The Army’s efforts are focused on immediate aid in northern, southern and central Luzon, building on the suspension of ongoing military drills to redirect resources toward saving lives amid widespread power outages and heavy rainfall,” PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said Monday.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) earlier paused all Field Training Exercises (FTX) for the “Dagat, Langit at Lupa” (DAGIT-PA) joint drills involving the Army, Air Force, and Navy due to the cyclone’s impact.
Dema-ala said the Army’s humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) units are now conducting rescue and relief efforts in high-risk areas, with over 4,700 soldiers, reservists, and CAA members deployed or on standby across affected regions.
In Aurora alone—where the typhoon made landfall—the 7th Infantry Division deployed 232 personnel and 14 military trucks. Similar operations are ongoing in Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Ilocos, and Bicol, supported by specialized rescue teams and equipment.
“While Army responders work around the clock to provide aid and lend a helping hand to communities that bore the brunt of the super typhoon, the CGPA reminded all commanders and troops to always be cautious of the situation and also ensure their safety through strictly adhering to the HADR safety standards,” Dema-ala said.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete and the General Staff are closely monitoring all operations.