TACLOBAN CITY – Braving rising floodwaters and fierce winds at the height of Typhoon “Opong,” soldiers of the 93rd Infantry Battalion mounted large-scale rescue and relief operations across Leyte, saving trapped residents and delivering essential aid.
Military teams were deployed to Kananga, Matag-ob, Calubian, Villaba, Albuera, and Ormoc City to assist families affected by severe flooding.
Among the most dramatic rescues was that of Jessica Madjus, 41, and her five children — Jonard, Jobert Jay, Jessa Mae, Joana Mae, and Grezel — who, along with their pets, were stranded in floodwaters over six feet deep in Sitio Libo, Barangay Balagtas, Matag-ob. “We are so grateful to the soldiers who risked their lives to save us,” Madjus said.
The battalion’s Disaster Response and Rescue Operations (DRRO) unit also provided transportation assistance in four municipalities and facilitated the delivery of 1,500 relief packs from partner agencies to remote barangays. Troops assisted in orderly evacuations, prioritizing children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, and supported road-clearing operations to reopen routes blocked by landslides, fallen trees, and debris.
Lt. Col. Celeste Frank Sayson, commanding officer of the 93rd IB, underscored the unit’s commitment to humanitarian service beyond their security mandate. “Our mission goes beyond safeguarding peace and security. In times of disaster, we are equally duty-bound to protect and serve the people,” he said.
Local officials and residents praised the soldiers’ efforts, saying their presence provided reassurance and accelerated recovery efforts in devastated communities.
The 93rd Infantry Battalion reaffirmed its readiness to extend both security and humanitarian support in coordination with local government units across its area of operations.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
