Sarangani: The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Monday announced the deployment of an S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopter to conduct damage assessment in Sarangani and surrounding provinces affected by a recent earthquake.

According to Philippines News Agency, Air Force spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco stated that the Black Hawk helicopter has been assigned to carry out a rapid damage assessment and needs analysis (RDANA) over the impacted regions. The aircraft took off from the Tactical Operations Group (TOG-11) at Davao Airport for this critical mission.

In an update, Basco highlighted that the helicopter departed with personnel from the Office of Civil Defense onboard. Additionally, a C-295 aircraft was mobilized from Villamor Air Base to Davao, transporting essential personnel from various departments including the Department of National Defense, Department of Health, Department of Education, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Philippine Army. This effort supports coordinated inter-agency response operations.

The PAF is prepared to offer its humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) capabilities based on the directives of the Unified Command in the affected areas, working closely with relevant government agencies and local authorities.

In parallel, the Philippine Army has deployed HADR units to the affected zones, working in coordination with local government units and other agencies. Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala confirmed that personnel are on the ground to assist with search, rescue, relief, and initial rehabilitation efforts, ensuring prompt response during the crisis.

Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reported that it is on alert and is coordinating with government agencies, uniformed services, and local government units affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Maasim, Sarangani. Discussions with the Department of National Defense and OCD have focused on immediate response operations for affected communities.

The OCD is preparing for the possible deployment of response teams, with OCD administrator Undersecretary Harold Cabreros ready to travel to General Santos City to facilitate coordination and expedite aid delivery to affected communities.