The commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) Sinaya, Commodore Ireneo D. Battung PN, visited Balut Island in Sarangani, Davao Occidental on June 12, 2026, to boost troop morale and assess ongoing disaster response operations following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that hit the area.
The visit also served as an opportunity to monitor Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) efforts currently being conducted on the island and nearby communities.
Commodore Battung met with personnel of Task Group Balut and other Philippine Navy units deployed in the area, who have been leading relief and response operations since the quake. During a “Talk to Troops” engagement, he commended the personnel for their resilience, professionalism, and dedication amid difficult operational conditions.
He also underscored their critical role in supporting affected communities and assured them of continued command support as recovery efforts progress.
The JTF Sinaya commander received operational updates from deployed units regarding ongoing relief activities conducted in coordination with local government units and partner agencies. Military personnel continue to assist in the distribution of relief goods, transportation of essential supplies, and delivery of humanitarian services to affected residents.
Commodore Battung also paid a courtesy call on Sarangani, Davao Occidental Mayor Adelan B. De Arce to discuss the situation on the ground, assess urgent needs, and reaffirm the Philippine Navy’s commitment to supporting local disaster response and recovery operations. The meeting reinforced coordination between military and civilian authorities in ensuring timely assistance to affected communities.
After his engagements, Battung departed Balut Island aboard two Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts (MPACs) bound for Davao City and extended transport assistance to 18 stranded residents. The passengers safely disembarked at Capt. Feranil Pier, Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City.
The Philippine Navy said JTF Sinaya and Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao remain committed to sustained relief operations and continued coordination with local authorities to support earthquake-affected communities in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.