Pasay City: Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. praised the returning Philippine Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent (PIAHC) for their commendable rescue and relief efforts in Myanmar. Their mission in the earthquake-stricken nation highlighted the Filipino spirit of aiding those in need.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PIAHC returned to Villamor Air Base in Pasay City aboard two C-130 transport planes after a two-week deployment in Myanmar. The team, led by Philippine Air Force Lt. Col. Erwen Diploma, comprised 89 personnel from various government agencies who departed in two batches on April 1 and 2, following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake on March 28.

The contingent included members from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, Bureau of Fire Protection, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Department of Health’s Philippine Medical Assistance Team. A welcome ceremony was held to honor their service, attended by key figures such as DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

This mission underscores the Philippines’ commitment to providing humanitarian assistance and fostering regional cooperation. The DOH’s Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Team (PEMAT) played a pivotal role by establishing a temporary health facility in Pyinmana, serving over 1,000 patients with medical and psychosocial support services. Team lead Ivy Lozada emphasized the importance of compassion and teamwork in their operations, which extended beyond medical aid.

The operation marked the first deployment of the PEMAT since its recognition by the World Health Organization as a Type 1 Fixed-Post Emergency Medical Team. Secretary Herbosa highlighted the team’s readiness to extend help and solidarity, encapsulating the Filipino spirit of Bayanihan.