The IDF sent a 148-member delegation to the Philippines on Wednesday, to provide rescue and medical services in the wake of typhoon Haiyan's massive destruction. Before setting out representatives pledged their best efforts in "giving hope" to the people of the Philippines.
Lt. Col. Golan Vach, operation officer of the delegation, said that in addition to providing 100 tons of supplies and assistance, the major mission of the delegation is to "give hope" with Israel's best professional response.
Meanwhile, Col. Dr. David Dagan, head of the IDF's planned field hospital, expressed hopes that they would be able to make a real positive impact.
Some reports place the death toll of Haiyan, one of the strongest typhoons ever to make landfall, at 10,000 people.
Along with the IDF, other groups, such as the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and IsraAID, have begun planning their response to the crisis.
While there has been an outpouring of international aid, much of it has yet to arrive at needed areas due to damaged roads and downed communications.