Navy sends SSV to bring vehicles, supplies to Mindanao

May 30, 2017

The Philippine Navy deployed its first Strategic Sealift Vessel (SSV) to transport military vehicles and supplies for government troops in Mindanao. Capt. Lued Lincuna, Philippine Navy spokesman, said BRP Tarlac, Amphibious Landing Dock (LD-601) sailed for Mindanao on Monday. “For this mission, LD 601 accommodated 30 military vehicles and supplies weighing 253 tons,” he said. “These cargoes will be distributed to the different AFP units in Mindanao to cater to the transport and logistical requirements of the ongoing military operations against terrorists,” Lincuna added. Lincuna said the vessel that can accommodate more than 4,000 tons of cargo and 500 personnel on-board, will be used for mass evacuation and even international humanitarian assistance during disasters and crisis. The transport of military supplies and equipment is being done almost a week after the whole area of Mindanao was placed under martial law. President Rodrigo Duterte placed the whole Mindanao under martial law on the night of May 23 as the Maute-ISIS Group occupied some establishment in Marawi City. (Robina Asido/DMS)