U.S. donates Php7.6M in disaster relief supplies to Cagayan

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On September 28, the U.S. Embassy Civil Affairs Team (CAT) donated disaster relief tents and medical supplies, dive equipment, and two rubber boats with out-board motors valued at Php 7.6 million ($130,000) to support local humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.

Atty. Mabel Villarica-Mamba, representing Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba, and CAT Leader Captain Stephen Coleman led the turnover of the donation to the Tuguegarao Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and to hospitals in the province.

Members of the PCG assisted in the delivery of the U.S.-donated supplies to Cagayan.

“Cagayan has 28 towns and one city, including an island municipality and several island barangays.  Hence, the donations that were turned over today will surely enhance the services of our PDRRMO, Task Force Lingkod Cagayan, hospitals, and other agencies,” said Atty. Villarica-Mamba.

The U.S. Embassy CAT has a longstanding collaboration with the Cagayan provincial government, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the PCG on several initiatives such as educational outreach activities, first responder training, medical programs, and support for the local COVID-19 response.

“The U.S. Embassy CAT is honored to have yet another opportunity to work among friends, partners, and allies here in the beautiful province of Cagayan,” said U.S. Army Capt. Coleman.

“We have been able to accomplish much in the areas of humanitarian aid, disaster preparedness, and medical response.”

“I am confident that we can address whatever obstacles we may face here together. Whether these new problems come in the form of natural disasters, global pandemics, or foreign incursions, those of us standing together today, as friends, partners, and allies, will be able to overcome any challenge, to defeat any threat, and remain strong and resilient in the face of adversity,” Capt. Coleman added.

U.S. Embassy CATs are a part of U.S. efforts to build shared capabilities with partner nations around the world.  The U.S. government constantly works to help communities in the Philippines prepare for and be more resilient to natural disasters.