Navy gives sacks of rice to families along Pasig River

April 14, 2020

Philippine Navy's  Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) used inflatable boats in giving food to  families living along the Pasig River in the Baseco compound, Tondo on Sunday, a military spokesperson said Tuesday.

Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, Philippine Navy spokesperson, said the NAVSOG used "four inflatable boats to thread the Pasig River and distribute sacks of rice to 260 families settling in the area using 10-foot pole hooks to extend their reach."

"Such initiative was in coordination with the AFP leadership and Development Center (AFPLDC) and in partnership with individual donors," she said.

"It also served as a test run for a possible means to help the poorest of the poor along littoral areas in this time of crisis using PN’s assets in support to the government’s National Action Plan (NAP) against COVID 19 led by chief implementor, retired Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr.," she added.

Rear Adm. Loumer Bernabe, the Philippine fleet commander, said “not only [the] NAVSOG but the whole PN assets are readily available to help aid the government in its effort to address the impact of this COVID19 in the country."

"We will continue to fight this unseen enemy and serve our kababayans in this crisis," he said.

Roxas said "the PN supports the 'whole-of-government' approach against COVID-19 threat not only to contain the spread of the virus but also to help implement initiatives that would mitigate the social, economic and security impacts of this pandemic." Robina Asido/DMS