U.S. Government Team in Areas Ravaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda
Chargé d’Affaires Brian L. Goldbeck led a joint U.S. government team to areas affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda to assess the damage and review relief operations with the Government of the Philippines. During his visit to the affected areas, Chargé Goldbeck and U.S. response commander Brigadier General Kennedy of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade met with the 8th Infantry Division Commander Major General Gerardo T. Layug to discuss assistance distribution to out-lying areas and coordination of possible MV22 Osprey deliveries in the next few days.
Chargé Goldbeck also met with Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez to better understand the situation for residents, government, and relief agencies in Tacloban City and the surrounding area. The Chargé later toured the area on an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) helicopter. Chargé Goldbeck was struck by the scope of the devastation, but says that the U.S. government focus is on supporting the efforts of the Government of the Philippines, assisting survivors, and ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. He met Philippine National Police (PNP)-Special Action Force commander Director Carmelo Valmoria and other leaders in the AFP, whose forces provide security to the area and airport, to thank them for their tireless efforts under trying conditions.
Chargé Goldbeck also handed over the first load of emergency shelter and sanitation supplies mobilized by USAID Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA) to partners in the Philippine government. USAID OFDA’s first shipment of emergency relief commodities consisted of 10,080 hygiene kits and 1,000 rolls of plastic sheeting—enough to benefit approximately 10,000 families. A second identical shipment is currently en route. OFDA supplies have already reached those in need and additional supplies will continue to help save lives throughout the relief process. OFDA’s Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) team has been on the ground since Sunday and provided context on ongoing relief efforts.(US Embassy)
