Philippine Air Force Deploys Helicopters to Combat Massive Tondo Fire in Manila
The Philippine Air Force launched 39 aerial firefighting missions to assist in containing a large-scale blaze in Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila. Hundreds displaced; emergency operations ongoing.
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Philippine Air Force Deploys Helicopters in Response to Massive Tondo Fire
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Tondo, Manila – August 6, 2025
A large-scale fire broke out in the densely populated area of Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila, displacing hundreds of residents and prompting an immediate multi-agency emergency response.
In a show of rapid coordination, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) deployed multiple aircraft to support the firefighting operations led by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
The 505th Search and Rescue Group launched a Huey II helicopter, which completed 33 aerial water drop sorties. Meanwhile, the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing dispatched a PZL W-3A Sokol and an S-70i Black Hawk, each flying three sorties to reinforce containment efforts.
This brings the total number of aerial firefighting missions to 39 as of this report.
Authorities report that the fire displaced several hundred families, many of whom are now receiving assistance from local government units and national disaster response agencies.
The Philippine Air Force reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protect communities during times of crisis, emphasizing its core values of Service Above Self and Excellence in Every Mission.
This incident underscores the increasing role of military aerial support in urban disaster response, particularly in highly populated zones like Metro Manila.
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