US Embassy provides $1.5 million in emergency, disaster aid to Philippines

By Rhaydz Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY — The United States government, through the US Embassy in the Philippines, has extended an additional $1.5 million in emergency assistance to support disaster response efforts following the devastation caused by Super Typhoons Tino (international name Kalmaegi) and Uwan (international name Fung-wong) across the Visayas, Southern Luzon, and Central Luzon over the weekend.

US Ambassador to the Philippines Mary Kay Carlson announced the new aid package through her official Twitter and Facebook accounts, saying the assistance aims to bolster ongoing response operations.

“Announced an additional $1.5M in emergency aid for disaster response efforts while visiting US personnel with DND Sec. Gilbert Teodoro in Clark. Inspired to see #FriendsPartnersAllies in action delivering DSWDserves family food packs,” Carlson said.

US Air Force aircraft have been transporting Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) food packs to Catanduanes, one of the hardest-hit areas in the Bicol Region after the onslaught of Typhoon Uwan.

“In close partnership with the Philippine government, U.S. forces are working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to support disaster relief for communities impacted by Typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung-Wong,” the US Embassy said in a statement.

It added that the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s forward presence enables rapid assistance during crises, showcasing “the strength of our alliance and our commitment to stand with friends, allies, and partners in times of need.”

Earlier, the US government also extended $1 million in emergency assistance after Typhoon Tino ravaged parts of the Visayas.

“We stand with the millions of Filipinos affected by Typhoon Kalmaegi (TinoPH). Working alongside Philippines Friends Partners Allies, the US is providing $1 million in emergency shelter and life-saving support—demonstrating our strong ties at this critical time,” the Embassy said.

At the request of the Philippine government, US military personnel have been coordinating closely with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, NDRRMC, Office of Civil Defense, Joint US Military Assistance Group, Task Force–Philippines, and the US Department of State to deliver foreign disaster relief to affected regions.

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Brodie, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, lauded the Philippine government’s readiness and coordination.

“I have been thoroughly impressed by the preparedness and forward-leaning measures taken by the Philippine government during this situation, and we will support the lead of our Philippine counterparts as we carry out this relief mission together as a fully aligned team,” Brodie said. “Support to our friends, allies, and partners, and their people in a time of need, is non-negotiable. Together, we are overcoming distance, weather, and logistical challenges to save lives.”

Since November 5, 2025, US and Philippine forces have been jointly planning and deploying assets to ensure the continued delivery of vital supplies to storm-affected areas—further underscoring the long-standing US–Philippines alliance and their shared commitment to regional resilience and humanitarian assistance.

US Ambassador to the Philippines Mary Kay Carlson announces the $1.5 million additional emergency aid for disaster response in the Philippines on Saturday. THe US Armed Forces aircrafts are delivering relief goods across the country specifically in the island province of Catanduanes. With her is Defense Sec. Gilbert Teodoro, US and Philippines troops including DSWD representative. (Photo from US Embassy)