MANILA, Philippines — The U.S. military trucked in supplies and marshaled helicopters and Navy ships as the Philippines struggled with the aftermath of back-to-back storms that have left more than 600 people dead.
After pulling six people from landslides late Thursday and early Friday, Filipino rescuers said they remained hopeful of finding more survivors in the stricken north of the country. They retrieved only bodies Saturday.
With roads blocked and bridges washed away, the Philippine government’s resources have been stretched thin. Officials have asked U.S. troops in the country for an annual military exercise to extend relief operations.
Marine Capt. Jorge Escatell, a U.S. military spokesman, said troops have trucked tons of U.N. food aid from Manila to a Philippine military camp in northern Tarlac province for distribution by the Americans today.
Marine CH-46 helicopters also have flown over the flooded region to assess the damage and find locations for a medical mission and food distribution. Heavy equipment will be brought in to help clear roads of debris, Escatell said.
