DILI, 12 November 2025 (TATOLI) – The deployment of Timor-Leste’s Disaster Response Teams to the Philippines has been postponed, the Chief of the General Staff of the Timorese Defence Force (F-FDTL), Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek, said on Wednesday.
The delay comes as Timor-Leste awaits Indonesia’s authorization for its Aero Dili aircraft to fly through Indonesian airspace to reach the Philippines.
The first team was initially scheduled to depart on Wednesday, but the overflight permit from Indonesia has not yet been granted.
“Timor-Leste’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has contacted its Indonesian counterpart in Jakarta regarding the authorization of Indonesian airspace for our teams, yet we have not been granted approval, so they are yet to fly to the Philippines,” Falur Rate Laek said.
He added that the approval process is expected to take at least two days, with both teams now scheduled to depart on 14 and 15 November.
The task force includes personnel from the Timor-Leste Defense Force, the National Fire Service, the Institute of Equipment Management of the Ministry of Public Works, and health professionals.
This operation marks Timor-Leste’s largest international humanitarian mission, aimed at providing relief, logistics, and medical assistance in coordination with Philippine authorities and international humanitarian organizations.
The deployment will take place in two phases, with the first group leaving on Friday and the second on Saturday.
The mission’s objectives include supporting local authorities in civilian protection, distributing food and water, constructing shelters, and providing medical and logistical assistance, all in accordance with International Humanitarian Law.
Jornalista: Natalino Costa
Editor: Julia Chatarina
Translation: Filomeno Martins
