In recent days, several areas in Cebu City, Philippines, have been severely impacted by Super Typhoon Bualoi and a 6.9 magnitude earthquake that left 69 people dead, more than 150 injured, and over 3,500 homes destroyed or collapsed. The total damage is estimated at more than 1.7 billion pesos (approximately 29.9 million USD).

Following this disaster, the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense directed a Vietnam Coast Guard delegation, led by Major General Tran Quang Tuan, Commander of Coast Guard Region 2, to assist local authorities and residents. The team traveled aboard patrol ship CSB 8002, which was already docked in the Philippines for an official visit and joint exchange with the Philippine Coast Guard.

On October 8, Vietnamese coast guard officers and soldiers, in coordination with Philippine Coast Guard personnel, journeyed more than 100 kilometers from the CSB 8002's anchoring location to Bogo Province - one of the areas hardest hit by the earthquake - to conduct relief operations.

During the mission, the delegation delivered one ton of rice, along with instant noodles, dried food, and bottled water, to local authorities and residents. Military medical officers from the CSB 8002 also worked with the Philippine Coast Guard's medical staff to provide free health check-ups and medication to those affected by the disaster.

Although the contribution by the Vietnam Coast Guard and the CSB 8002 crew may seem modest in comparison to the magnitude of loss experienced by local communities, their actions demonstrated profound humanitarian values. These efforts reflect the spirit of solidarity, compassion, and friendship that the Vietnamese people extend to international partners, reinforcing the image of the modern-day Vietnamese Coast Guard soldier - the “Uncle Ho’s soldier” of today.

Nhan Dan