16:32 | Arequipa (Arequipa region), Feb. 23.
As part of the government's initial response actions to address the emergency caused by heavy rainfall in Arequipa, the Defense sector is deploying its capabilities and personnel, working in coordination with local authorities to support efforts aimed at mitigating the impact.
To oversee these actions, Minister Cesar Diaz (Defense), accompanied by Ministers Aldo Prieto (Transportation and Communications), Wilder Sifuentes (Housing, Construction, and Sanitation), and Vladimir Cuno (Agrarian Development and Irrigation) arrived in the southern region to coordinate efforts.
"Each of the sectors represented here has issued instructions to continue working intensively to resolve these problems. It is a sustained and ongoing effort, not only in Arequipa but nationwide," the Defense minister said after meeting with Regional Governor Rohel Sanchez.
Likewise, Minister Diaz announced the deployment of additional machinery and first-response personnel for rehabilitation work.
"That is the best way to contribute to development and to solving the problems facing our population; that is the government's intention, and one we share," he emphasized.
During the visit, authorities inspected the overflow of the Chuyo ravine in Yanahuara.
They also toured other areas affected by heavy rainfall, including the Flora Tristan housing complex and the Villa Continental informal settlement, among other localities, where authorities confirmed that residents have been impacted.
This deployment included representatives from agencies involved in disaster risk management, such as the National Civil Defense Institute, along with technical staff, to ensure continued urgent assistance for the affected population.
Army in Arequipa
As a first-response force, personnel from the Army's 3rd Division, through Command Company No. 113 and Military Police Company No. 113, are carrying out cleanup and debris-removal operations on roads, homes, and infrastructure damaged by mudslides and overflows at various locations across the region.
Troops from the Vencedores de Pichincha Mechanized Infantry Battalion No. 13 have been deployed in Cayma and Cerro Colorado districts.
Today, members of the Arequipa Garrison's Rapid Disaster Response Brigades joined the operation to support potable water supply efforts amid mudslides and rising water levels in the Chili River.
(END) NDP/RES/MVB
Published: 2/23/2026