Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) yesterday flew eight medical teams and one psychosocial team to Tacloban City, along with critical medicines and supplies, in support of the Department of Health (DoH)’s efforts to bring aid to victims of typhoon Yolanda.
The teams, consisting of more than 70 medical practitioners, were airlifted for free by PAL upon the request of the DoH, which said that all health facilities in region VIII were damaged by the typhoon. PAL also flew in medicines, medical equipment, cadaver bags, and other supplies and materials needed to augment the department’s efforts in the region and at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center, the only functional hospital in Tacloban.
On Monday, PAL also operated a humanitarian flight from Manila to Tacloban to transport teams from the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and other government agencies, tasked with mounting rescue and medical missions.
PAL president and chief operating officer Ramon S. Ang, said:
We will do everything we can to assist in government’s efforts to respond to the needs of our countrymen. We will continue to coordinate closely with government agencies to see where we can help. We are prepared to extend assistance any way we can.
Earlier this week, the flag carrier also announced that it had started airlifting, for free, critical supplies and relief goods from government agencies and duly-registered organizations, following the resumption of operations of some of the affected airports.
Donors only need to contact the PAL Foundation at telephone numbers (02) 851-2980 or (02) 8526096 (telefax) or email palfoundation@pal.com.ph and provide their name, the contact information of the consignee, and a list of the contents of the shipment. PAL will fly the goods on a space availability basis.
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