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Exercise BALIKATAN included several combined civic action projects, including building a new school.

Medical Support After Jet Crash

During the exercise, a PAF F-5 fighter jet crashed into a Mabalacat Elementary School building in Pampanga, killing the pilot and injuring several people on the ground. U.S. personnel helped bring educational supplies, medical support, and clean-up efforts together to aid the school.

A contingent of U.S. sailors provided medical treatment for over 730 people and dental care for 85 more in the affected area.

According to U.S. Navy Chief Laredo Gois, the filipinos were very happy to be treated by the service members. Having U.S. sailors, like Chief Gois, who speak the local language helped break down the language barrier.