Camp Lapulapu, Cebu City — The Visayas Command is intensifying its efforts for humanitarian assistance and disaster response as heavy rains continue to devastate Eastern Visayas due to the low pressure area and shear line.

The VisCom said Friday that it has deployed seven HADR teams composed of 82 personnel to flashflood-affected communities in Northern and Eastern Samar to assist the local government units in their respective disaster response operations.

This follows after the Joint Task Force Strom earlier established 106 HADR Teams composed of 1,127 personnel that have been placed on standby alert and ready for deployment when the need arises.

“We will mobilize the needed resources in support to the disaster response efforts of the local government units to minimize casualties and damages as well as ensure the safety and well–being of our people in the affected communities in the region,” said the VisCom.

The HADR teams work hand in hand with the responders from other government agencies and local government units in conducting preemptive evacuations, search and rescue operations, road clearing operations, and distribution of aid to displaced families.