TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan on Tuesday donated US$200,000 (NT$6.12 million) through its representative office in the Philippines to help victims of the powerful earthquake that struck Cebu Province two weeks ago.
At 9:59 p.m. on Sept. 30, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit Cebu Province, with its epicenter located 17 km northeast of Bogo City, per CNA. The quake left 72 people dead, 559 injured, and damaged more than 36,000 homes, leaving about 18,000 people homeless.
An event was held at Taiwan’s representative office in Manila, where Wallace Chow (周民淦) presented a ceremonial check to Cherbett Maralit, deputy resident representative of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taiwan, and officials from the Cebu provincial government.
Chow conveyed Taiwan’s condolences to those affected and expressed hope for a swift recovery. He said the donation reflects the deep friendship between Taiwan and the Philippines and that “Taiwan is willing to strengthen cooperation with the Philippines on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to better respond to natural disasters in both our countries.”
Maralit expressed the gratitude of Filipinos to Taiwan and pledged to work closely with the Cebu provincial government to ensure the funds are used effectively. Cebu legal counsel Kevin Dinsay said Taiwan’s generous donation has brought comfort, hope, and strength to residents.
Dinsay told CNA that Cebu is working hard to recover, focusing on rebuilding infrastructure, roads, bridges, and ports. He added that many residents have lost their homes or are too afraid to return, so the provincial government is constructing temporary shelters and providing psychological support.
He also shared that he visited Taiwan in 2018 and 2023 and was immensely impressed by the warmth, hospitality, and cuisine of the Taiwanese.
In addition to the Taiwanese government, the Taiwan Association in Cebu, the European Union, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and the Singapore Red Cross have also provided financial and material aid to the affected areas.
