When a powerful earthquake struck the southern Philippines, thousands of families lost their homes, access to essential supplies, and their sense of security within minutes. Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) Europe immediately launched a humanitarian operation in cooperation with Royal Caribbean, to provide assistance to the most affected communities as quickly as possible.

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Our team set off from Warsaw the day after the disaster and arrived on the island of Mindanao, where they began aid efforts for families affected by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred on June 8th, 2026.

The catastrophe caused massive destruction, with at least 2000 buildings and 6000 schools damaged on the Philippines' second-largest island (after Luzon). According to official sources, at least 37 people have died and at least 487 have been injured. Many areas are still without electricity, and telephone contact is also difficult.

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Our team is currently on the ground in Sarangani province, in the southern part of Mindanao island, which is part of the Soccsksargen region. We have provided assistance to families most in need in places including General Santos, the region's largest city. Sarangani, Mindanao's southernmost province, and the entire Soccsksargen region are among the areas on the island most affected by the disaster. Reaching many locations remains extremely difficult, as numerous roads have been destroyed or severely damaged. Therefore, in coordination with our local partner, we are organising the distribution of aid packages purchased by us in locations that are accessible and where affected families can safely reach to receive assistance. We are there where help is most needed.

We are supporting families who have lost everything - with the hope that together we can help them rebuild their lives after this tragedy.

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