Typhoon First Response

Typhoon Haiyan, locally known as “Yolanda,” hit the Philippines on November 8, 2013.  Rescue Global monitored the situation and determined that ongoing need would result in an increased need for reconnaissance and multi-agency command support. As a result, Rescue Global deployed for a 6 week period using their own King Air 90c aircraft. Geographical isolation proved to be a very large obstacle to recovery for many areas, especially the Cuyo Island Atol, which lacked aid supplies and assistance.

Rescue Global’s initial mission was to establish needs, preform reconnaissance of previously unassessed areas, and check on areas already serviced for progress updates and further assistance. All aspects of the mission profile were completed working closely with local communities, partner charities, the Philippine authorities and NGOs. Our deployment enabled us to deliver emergency aid as well as life-saving support.

Thanks to United Airlines and the generous donations of United Charity miles by AIRLINK supporters, Rescue Global transported an additional Pathfinder resource once we had established a presence at Cebu Airbase.

Results

• 400 children were provided with emergency aid in terms of security, food, water, and medical assistance.
• 5,000 people were identified as being in need of emergency aid following ground and air reconnaissance of remote islands, and this aid was then quickly delivered.
• 50,000 people were provided with clean water through the distribution of water filtration equipment.
• Casualties from Tacloban evacuated to Manila at the request of the Philippine Air Force.
• Provided aid training to local communities and their leaders.
• Put in place a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippine Air Force and Search & Rescue specialist units with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to co-deploy and cooperate on future operations.