Taiwanese Civic Group Provides Emergency Supplies in Response to Major Philippine Earthquake

(CNA, Taipei, June 10, by reporter Wu Hsin-yun) A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on the 8th, causing major damage. A civic group has initiated a disaster zone needs assessment and emergency response mechanism, and will first provide emergency living supplies to help affected families secure basic shelter and living support.

The magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao, Philippines, on the 8th caused building collapses and triggered a tsunami warning. Official and local disaster agencies stated that the earthquake displaced thousands of people, injured more than 450, and four people are believed to be still missing.

The civic group, The Mustard Seed Mission, issued a press release today stating that it has launched a relief operation for the Philippine earthquake. It has contacted its Philippine partners, initiated a disaster zone needs assessment and emergency response mechanism, and is preparing emergency supplies and relief resources for humanitarian aid work. It will also leverage local church and community volunteer networks to reach deep into affected communities and provide necessary care and support to affected families and children.

The Mustard Seed Mission noted that the first phase will focus on providing emergency living supplies, including food, safe drinking water, hygiene products, and daily necessities. It will also assist affected families in obtaining basic shelter and living support, while simultaneously focusing on child care and psychological support.

Furthermore, The Mustard Seed Mission stated that, referencing past post-disaster service experience such as the flood disaster in Guangfu, Hualien, Taiwan, it will cooperate with local churches and civic organizations to train an estimated 20 local volunteers to provide companionship and psychological support services for 500 affected children. This will help the children cope with post-disaster fear, anxiety, and unease, and gradually rebuild their sense of security and life order.

Lee Chao-chia, CEO of The Mustard Seed Mission, said that the impact of major disasters often goes beyond the damage to houses and infrastructure, deeply affecting the sense of security in the lives of families and children. After a disaster, many children not only face the insecurity of losing their homes but may also suffer from long-term psychological stress. He hopes that through local partners and community strength, they can accompany the affected families through the most difficult times and help them rebuild their lives step by step.

To assist with the relief work in the disaster areas of the Philippines, The Mustard Seed Mission has also launched the "Philippine Earthquake Relief Action" fundraiser and is collaborating with 7-ELEVEN and FamilyMart convenience stores to provide multiple donation channels. The funds raised will be dedicated exclusively to the distribution of emergency living supplies, post-disaster settlement assistance, and psychological support for children in the Philippines, helping the affected people to resume their basic lives as soon as possible. (Editor: Li Heng-shan) 1150610