With power restored to typhoon-hit Philippines and its humanitarian and medical mission complete, the Chinese Navy hospital ship "Peace Ark" returned to Zhoushan on Dec. 15.
PLA Navy Deputy Commander Su Shiliang was on hand to welcome the ship back. He pointed out that the mission had important practical implications on the development of the navy’s non-military and medical support capabilities on the high seas.
He said the fundamental responsibility of the ship's officers and crew was to overcome the effects of extreme weather, draw on the experience of its previous successful missions, and provide a variety of air-sea search and rescue missions to the hardest hit Tacloban region.
In providing medical personnel, medicine and assistance, the Chinese people and armed forces have demonstrated their support for peace and life. The successful humanitarian mission has brought honor to China and its armed forces.
Approval for mission was received from the Central Military Commission on Nov. 21, just a few days after the Peace Ark completed its 120-day multinational joint humanitarian assistance and disaster relief excercise better known as “Harmonious Mission 2013.
Once ordered, the Peace Ark sped to Tacloban in Central Philippines which was one of the hardest hit areas of Typhoon Haiyan. There it provided humanitarian medical assistance and medical support. This was the first time China sent a ship overseas to participate in a disaster relief operation. It was also the first time in the Peace Ark’s five years of service that it was called on to operate in such conditions.
During its mission in the Philippines, the Peace Ark provided treatment to 2208 persons and admitted 113 into the hospital. 44 surgeries were performed and 1482 people received laboratory examinations including B-ultrasound, CT, DR and ECG exams. More than 2600 people received medical assistance or medicine and 7000 people were given epidemiological exams.