AFP inks partnerships for disaster assistance

MANILA, Philippines - The military has signed agreements with two private groups to provide assistance to areas ravaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda and other disasters.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) entered into agreements with Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines, Inc. and United Laboratories, Inc. last week, extending its network of partners for disaster response operations.

The memorandum of understanding between the AFP and Tzu Chi will promote cooperation in providing houses for victims of typhoon Yolanda.

Military soldiers and engineers will assist in preparing the housing sites and in building the shelters. The AFP will also coordinate with local governments and other stakeholders to facilitate the construction projects.

“We thank the AFP for helping us in transporting relief goods from Mactan, Cebu to Ormoc and to Yolanda victims. This time we ask the AFP to help us in the construction of houses for the victims,” a military statement quoted Tzu Chi Philippines chief executive officer Alfredo Li as saying.

Tzu Chi Foundation is one of the biggest providers of assistance in typhoon-struck areas. The Buddhist group also provided resources to reconstruct the Sto. Niño parish church in Tacloban.

Meanwhile, the agreement with Unilab seeks to provide medical assistance to areas affected by calamities. Under the deal, the AFP will provide personnel and transportation to support Unilab’s medical missions.

“The two memoranda of understanding will formalize on-going joint projects between the AFP and Tzu Chi and Unilab as the military has been providing logistical support and manpower in relief operations during disasters,” AFP public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said.