India offers 7 helicopters for Philippines rescue operations

The Indian government is offering the Philippines at least seven helicopters for the rescue and humanitarian efforts of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) during disasters in the country. Sources said the two countries have been discussing the issue since the Philippines expressed interest in the choppers during the visit of an Indian delegation to Manila in August.
President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr said in an official statement that India’s offer to provide helicopters to the PCG will be a big help to the Philippine government’s efforts to build up the country’s capabilities in terms of rescue and humanitarian efforts.

Marcos added that it will also be “a big contribution for the PCG’s maritime operations”. He said, “We’re trying to build up our capacity — our capabilities in terms of our coast guard, in terms of our — of course, the search and rescue is always the primary consideration.”