The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has launched a nationwide prayer and fundraising drive after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake killed at least 37 people, injured 479 others, and left four missing in Mindanao.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported Tuesday that 33 of the deaths, 456 injuries, and all four missing persons were recorded in the SOCCSKSARGEN region, while four deaths and 23 injuries were reported in the Davao Region.
The Office of Civil Defense identified General Santos City as among the hardest-hit areas as retrieval operations continued and authorities assessed the extent of the damage and the immediate needs of affected communities.
In a June 9 statement, CBCP President Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa expressed “profound sorrow and solidarity” with those affected by the disaster.
“We grieve with the families who have lost loved ones, pray for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured, and stand in spiritual communion with all those who have been displaced from their homes and livelihoods,” Garcera said.
The archbishop urged dioceses, parishes, religious communities, and Catholic institutions to include special intentions for earthquake victims during Masses next Sunday.
He also appealed to bishops nationwide to authorize a second collection on June 14, with proceeds to be channeled through diocesan social action centers and Caritas Philippines to support emergency relief and rehabilitation efforts.
“In moments such as these, we are reminded that the Church is called to be a sign of hope and a witness of charity,” Garcera said.
“As one family in Christ, we cannot remain indifferent to the suffering of our brothers and sisters. Their pain is our pain; their loss is our loss,” the prelate added.
The appeal came as Church social action networks began coordinating assistance for affected communities.
In a separate message, Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of San Carlos, president of Caritas Philippines, assured survivors that the Catholic Church’s social action network stands with them as they recover from the disaster.
He called on Catholic communities, dioceses, religious organizations, and people of goodwill to support relief and rehabilitation efforts.
“In the midst of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty, we want to assure you that you are not alone,” Alminaza said.
The prelate said dioceses, parishes, and social action centers across the country are working together to respond to the needs of affected communities.
He also cited reports from the Diocese of Marbel that some areas remain difficult to reach, including Indigenous communities in Lake Sebu.
“As authorities continue to assess the extent and magnitude of the damage, we invite everyone to pray for the safety of all, especially those staying in evacuation centers, as well as rescuers, volunteers, and front-line workers,” he said.
Alminaza also expressed solidarity with families mourning the loss of loved ones and those struggling to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the earthquake.
