The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) sent a 10-member team on Tuesday to assist in the retrieval and relief operations in Mandalay, Myanmar after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake last Friday.
The MMDA Search, Rescue, and Retrieval Team is collaborating with other groups, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Department of Health.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said the group will stay in Mandalay for two weeks to carry out a humanitarian mission. The team is equipped with life locators, extrication equipment, and water purifiers.
The Office of Civil Defense organized this deployment in accordance with the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro.
Artes emphasized that the deployment of the Philippine contingent symbolizes the country’s commitment to cooperation with Myanmar and aligns with the “One ASEAN, One Response” initiative.
“This also reflects the Philippines’ compliance with the international relief effort, in partnership with the United Nations, the European Union, Singapore, and China,” he added.
Recent reports indicate that at least 2,000 people have died, and more than 180,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged due to the earthquake.