The 2nd Air Force Wing Reserve (2nd AFWR) launched a humanitarian relief mission last Thursday to assist thousands of families displaced by massive flooding in Bulacan province.

Led by Lt. Col. Michael Romero, the group helped evacuate more than 7,500 individuals, including about 1,500 families from Calumpit and 300 families from Hagonoy. They were transported to Calumpit National High School and other designated evacuation centers.

Barangays San Juan and San Isidro were heavily affected, prompting full-scale rescue and relocation efforts using two Air Force 6x6 trucks.

"Laban lang hanggang matapos ang mission," said Romero, who is also chairman of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines Inc. (ARRAPI).

He lauded the bravery and dedication of the reservists and volunteers who responded swiftly and selflessly.

Food and basic necessities, including 3 kilograms of rice, canned sardines, instant noodles and coffee, were distributed to all evacuees. However, Romero stressed that medicines and medical supplies are still urgently needed, and efforts are underway to source and distribute them to evacuation centers.

The operation was coordinated and supervised by the 2nd Air Force Reserve Center (ARCEN) based at Clark Airbase, under the command of Col. Mark Yambing. On-the-ground efforts in Calumpit and Hagonoy were carried out by the 2nd AFWR in partnership with its Bulacan Air Force Command Post (ACP), headed by Reservist Major Rolando Rodolfo.

Officials from Calumpit and Hagonoy expressed their gratitude to 2nd AFWR, ARCEN, ARRAPI and other government agencies for providing logistical support, shelter assistance and welfare services.