U.S. Steps In to Support Philippine Government After Back-to-Back Typhoons

The United States military is now actively assisting the Philippine government in delivering urgent humanitarian aid to regions devastated by consecutive Typhoons Kalmaegi (Tino) and Fung-Wong (Uwan), which left widespread destruction and a rising death toll across Luzon and the Bicol Region.

At the request of the Philippine government, U.S. forces under the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) rapidly deployed aircraft, logistics teams, and humanitarian equipment to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in ongoing foreign disaster relief operations.

In Catanduanes, one of the hardest-hit provinces, U.S. Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit offloaded thousands of family food packs in coordination with the Philippine Army’s 83rd Infantry Battalion and Philippine Air Force Tactical Operations Group 5. The supplies are bound for isolated communities still struggling with limited access, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted supply routes.

At Clark Air Base, AFP personnel and U.S. Marines prepared and loaded more than 8,000 palletized food packs for immediate delivery to the Bicol Region. KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the 36th Airlift Squadron also arrived with equipment and logistical support essential for accelerating the relief effort.

According to AFP officials, the U.S. military’s airlift capability has significantly sped up the distribution of relief goods, enabling faster access to remote areas where sea travel remains dangerous due to rough waters and debris.

U.S. Indo-Pacific Command emphasized that its forward presence in the region allows rapid humanitarian response during crises. “Our commitment to the Philippines and our regional partners is unwavering, especially in times of need,” the command said in a statement.

The Philippine government welcomed the assistance, underscoring the long-standing defense alliance between Manila and Washington. The Department of National Defense said the joint operations highlight the strength of bilateral cooperation during emergencies.

Typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung-Wong battered the country within days of each other, triggering landslides, widespread flooding, power outages, and extensive damage to homes and infrastructure. Authorities continue to assess the impact while rescue, relief, and clearing operations remain underway.

As more supplies are flown into affected areas, both governments reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that aid reaches the communities that need it most — and to working together until recovery efforts are complete.