U.S. Embassy Photo Release
March 14, 2007

Free Medical Care for Typhoon Victims in Legaspi:
U.S. and Philippine Militaries Assist Families in Evacuation Centers

 

Children and families in Albay Province who are still recovering from strong typhoons in late 2006 received free medical treatment from U.S. and Philippine military personnel visiting Legaspi for humanitarian projects. Pictured above, a U.S. Navy doctor examines the new cast of a local toddler during a free medical clinic in Guinobatan, Albay Province on March 13.

A U.S. Navy ship visiting Legaspi has partnered with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for several days of humanitarian projects benefiting victims of natural disasters in the area. With the AFP, U.S. Marines from the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Sailors from the USS Comstock will deliver nearly 10,000 pounds of donated goods such as clothes, toys, food, and medical supplies; provide free health clinics at six evacuation sites for citizens who are still homeless; and conduct engineering projects to repair, improve, and clean schools and evacuation centers.

The visit is part of Operation Goodwill, created in 2003 by U.S. Marines, service members, and their families in Okinawa to show appreciation to the children and families of the Philippines for welcoming them during annual bilateral exercises. The U.S. Marines work each year with their families to gather donations and then deliver toys and supplies to Filipino children over the holiday season.

The United States has been a long-standing partner of the Philippines in disaster relief and response to humanitarian crises. From the U.S. Marines' crisis assistance in Aurora and Quezon provinces after typhoons in 2004, and in southern Leyte after the landslide in February 2006, to emergency assistance following Typhoons Milenyo and Reming in late 2006, the American people have been ready and willing to help the Filipino people in their time of need.

 

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