Church leaders pledge prayers, aid for communities affected by Mindanao earthquake

Church leaders pledge prayers and financial aid to the communities affected by the strong earthquake that hit Sarangani province and nearby areas on Monday morning, according to a CBCP News report.

“With deep sorrow, I join our brothers and sisters in General Santos City and the surrounding communities who have been affected by the recent earthquake,” said Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula, in his statement aired over Radio Veritas.

He then called on the faithful to send over assistance to those affected by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that hit off the coast of Sarangani.

“In these difficult moments, may we draw strength from our faith and from the solidarity of one another,” he added.

He also sought prayers to guide the emergency responders in their ongoing rescue operations.

Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy issued a "Prayer for Mindanao" in Cebuano language.

"Tabangi sila sa ilang kasakit, ubani sila sa ilang kahadlok ug kalisod. Lig-ona ang mga samaran, hupaya ang mga nagbangutan, ug hatagi og paglaum ang mga nawad-an og balay, panginabuhian, ug kalinaw sa hunahuna," it said in part.

(Help them in their pain, be with them in their fear and distress. Strengthen the wounded, comfort the grieving, and give hope to those who have lost their homes, livelihoods, and peace of mind.)

Dumaguete Bishop Julito Cortes also issued prayers for affected families.

Bishop Leo Dalmao, of the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan, instructed that a second collection be conducted in all Masses on Sunday, June 14, 2026 that would be sent to Caritas Philippines.

“The prelature joins the nation in prayer for the victims, the injured citizens, displaced families, and those people in the frontline,” he said.

The Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines (CMSP), an organization composed of members of religious congregations, offered prayers.

"May the Lord strengthen rescue workers, comfort displaced families, and grant wisdom to leaders and responders as they provide aid and assistance. Let us stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Mindanao—not only through our prayers but also through acts of compassion and support," they said in a statement.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." — Psalm 46:1 Please include Mindanao in your prayers today."

Meanwhile, CBCP News also reported that the Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States, is monitoring the situation to identify the needs of the affected communities. — BAP, GMA News