PCSO mobilizes relief efforts for victims of Mindanao earthquake

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and its Authorized Agent Corporations (AACs) in Mindanao has mobilized relief aid for those affected by the powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani on Monday morning.

In a statement, PCSO general manager Melquiades Robles noted that AACs in Mindanao were among those that quickly moved to support residents and coordinate relief efforts with local partners.

He said the AACs’ response underscore the agency’s mission of bringing help and hope to Filipinos in urgent need.

“Sa panahon ng sakuna, mas lalong nakikita ang tunay na diwa ng malasakit. Our KawanggaWarriors are showing up when our kababayans need us the most,” Robles said.

(In times of calamity, we see the true essence of compassion. Our KawanggaWarriors are showing up when our countrymen need us the most.)

“Through the collective efforts of PCSO and our Authorized Agent Corporations, we will continue to extend help, hope, and immediate support to families affected by this earthquake,” he added.

Data from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) showed that the death toll in the Mindanao earthquake has reached 35 as of Monday evening.

Robles assured that the PCSO is committed to supporting communities in times of calamity.

He said the agency’s network of partners plays a vital role in ensuring that assistance can be delivered quickly, especially in areas directly affected by disasters.

“Ang PCSO ay laging handang umalalay sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa panahon ng matinding pangangailangan (The PCSO is always ready to help our countrymen, especially in times of dire need). We thank our AAC partners in Mindanao for acting with urgency, compassion, and a shared commitment to public service,” Robles said.

The PCSO said its AACs will continue to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) and concerned agencies to determine the needs of affected communities and help facilitate the delivery of appropriate assistance.

It added that it remains ready to provide support as relief, response, and recovery efforts continue in Mindanao.

The powerful tremor struck at 7:37 a.m., causing damage to infrastructure and disrupting utility services. It also prompted the issuance of a tsunami warning for nearby areas, as well as the suspension of classes and work in government offices across several areas. — JMA, GMA News