The United States military is positioned to provide foreign disaster relief to communities in the Philippines affected by the extensive damage and tragic loss of life caused by consecutive typhoons “Tino” and “Uwan,” the US Embassy announced Thursday.

In a statement, the embassy said that the relief efforts were initiated at the request of the Philippine government, adding that the forward presence and ready posture of the United States Indo-Pacific Command facilitated a rapid and effective response to the natural disasters, demonstrating the US commitment as a friend, ally and partner.

Working in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Counci, the Office of Civil Defense, the Joint US Military Assistance Group, Task Force-Philippines and the US Department of State, the US military has deployed various assets and personnel to support foreign disaster relief operations.

“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,” said US Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Brodie, the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade commanding general.

“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,” he added.