US Military Deploys Disaster Relief Support for Philippine Response to Successive Storms

Our Bureau - : Nov 17, 2025 - : 8:55 pm

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Washington is working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to provide foreign disaster relief to communities affected by consecutive Typhoons Kalmaegi (Tino) and Fung-Wong (Uwan), which caused extensive damage and tragic loss of life.

The forward presence and ready posture of United States Indo-Pacific Command in the region facilitated a rapid and effective response to these natural disasters, demonstrating the U.S. commitment as friends, allies, and partners during times of need.

At the request of the Philippine government, the U.S. deployed MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 and KC-130J Hercules aircraft to support disaster operations and airlift relief supplies to communities affected by the typhoon.

“I have been thoroughly impressed by the preparedness and forward-leaning measures taken by the Philippine government during this situation, and we will support the lead of our Philippine counterparts as we carry out this relief mission together as a fully-aligned team,” said U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Brodie, the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade commanding general.

“Support to our friends, allies, and partners, and their people in a time of need, is non-negotiable. Together, we are overcoming distance, weather, and logistical challenges to save lives.”

About 1.4 million people were affected by Typhoon Fung-wong, which caused severe flooding and landslides, knocked out power, and left scores dead.

Fung-wong, known locally as Uwan, comes just after Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed nearly 200 people in central Philippines and five in Vietnam.

Since Nov. 5, 2025, the U.S. military has coordinated mission planning with the Philippine government and military agencies to continue the work of providing vital supplies to regions impacted by the storm.

This effort highlights the long-standing U.S.-Philippine Alliance and the shared commitment to regional resilience and humanitarian assistance.