A U.S. Department of State Regional Foreign Assistance Officer (left) and a U.S. Marine (right) discuss the transport of food packs with a Philippine Air Force servicemember and a Filipino contractor at Clark Air Base on November 13.

Clark Air Base, Pampanga-In the immediate aftermath of Super Typhoon Fung-wong (Uwan), the United States continues to answer the call for assistance from one of our closest friends, partners, and allies, the Philippines. Striking less than a week after Typhoon Kalmaegi’s (Tino) devastation, Super Typhoon Fung-wong has further strained relief efforts on the ground. The United States continues to support Philippine-led efforts to save lives, alleviate suffering, and address urgent needs.

To this end, the United States is providing an additional $1.5 million (Php87 million) in emergency, life-saving assistance in support of the Philippine government-led response, bringing the total U.S. response to Typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung-wong to $2.5 million (Php145 million), including support for logistics, emergency shelter, water, sanitation resources, and the management of evacuation centers.

As millions of Filipinos face the challenges left by these overlapping disasters, including the Cebu earthquake in September, our continued rapid response stands as a testament to the depth of the enduring ties between the United States and the Philippines, especially in times of crisis.(PR)