Metro Manila, Philippines – The United Arab Emirates has launched an emergency humanitarian response for communities affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao, providing relief assistance through the UAE Aid Agency as casualties and damage continue to mount.
In a statement released Thursday, the UAE Aid Agency said the assistance was intended to help affected communities recover from the disaster, which has left dozens dead and hundreds injured.
“This urgent UAE response stems from the country’s international responsibility toward communities and peoples facing natural disasters and crises,” said Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, chairman of the UAE Aid Agency. “We aim to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the earthquake and help with early recovery and stability in coordination with international organisations and relevant local authorities.”
Al Ameri said the assistance was based on a comprehensive assessment conducted in coordination with Philippine authorities to identify priority needs on the ground. He added that the UAE remains committed to delivering essential aid as quickly as possible in line with humanitarian assessments from relevant United Nations agencies.
The announcement came as the Philippine government continued relief and recovery operations in areas devastated by the powerful earthquake that struck off Sarangani province on June 8. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has reported at least 37 deaths and more than 140 injuries, while thousands of residents have been displaced.
The UAE’s assistance follows messages of solidarity from several countries, including the United States, Japan, China, Australia, Germany, France, New Zealand, Israel, Russia and Ukraine, all of which expressed condolences and support for the Philippines in the aftermath of the disaster.
Earlier, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent a message of condolences to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., expressing sympathy for the victims of the earthquake and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reiterated its solidarity with the Philippines, extending its condolences to the families of the victims and affirming its support for ongoing relief and recovery efforts in affected communities.
This is a news release from the UAE Embassy in Manila.
