In times of crisis, the Filipino spirit of compassion and service knows no borders.
Following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, the Philippine government has deployed a 91-member Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent to support Myanmar earthquake relief efforts. The disaster has left more than 100 people dead and displaced many more. With infrastructure severely damaged and communities in need of urgent care, this mission represents not just international aid—but true bayanihan in action.
Compassion in action
The Filipino humanitarian team includes skilled personnel from the Office of Civil Defense, Department of Health, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, MMDA, DENR, and the private sector. These brave men and women are tasked with search and rescue operations, providing emergency medical services, and delivering much-needed relief supplies.
At the heart of the medical mission is the Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Team (PEMAT), officially deployed by the Department of Health. Recognized by the World Health Organization, PEMAT is trained to deliver outpatient care through mobile health tents and temporary facilities. Their expertise covers trauma management, pediatric and obstetric services, reproductive health, pharmaceutical support, and psychosocial aid. This team previously led missions in other disaster-stricken nations and now brings that same level of care and commitment to Myanmar.
Equipped with medical gear, rescue tools, and the unwavering commitment to serve, the team landed in Myanmar on April 1, ready to bring assistance to quake-affected communities. Their presence on the ground highlights the Philippines’ active role in international humanitarian response, especially in Southeast Asia.
Image from Philippine Air Force Facebook Page
A history of helping others
This isn’t the first time the Philippines has offered aid to other nations in need. Over the years, Filipino humanitarian teams have been deployed to countries like Türkiye (formerly Turkey), Indonesia, Haiti, and Nepal. After the massive Türkiye-Syria earthquakes in 2023, Filipino rescuers were among the early responders. Back in 2018, the Philippines also sent a response team to Palu, Indonesia, after a deadly earthquake and tsunami.
Filipino peacekeepers have also long contributed to United Nations missions across the globe. Whether it’s disaster response, medical aid, or peacebuilding, the Philippines consistently upholds its commitment to solidarity and global cooperation.
Now, with the Myanmar earthquake relief mission underway, the country once again proves that the spirit of service is deeply rooted in the Filipino identity.
Image from Philippine Air Force Facebook Page
Helping from home: What you can do?
Even if you’re not physically in Myanmar, there are still meaningful ways to help from home.
Here are some reputable organizations currently responding to the crisis and accepting donations:
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Philippine Red Cross – Actively involved in disaster response and coordination. Donations can be made online at redcross.org.ph
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International Medical Corps – Providing medical care and essential services to affected families in Myanmar. Visit internationalmedicalcorps.org
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International Rescue Committee (IRC) – Delivering emergency supplies like food, clean water, and shelter. Donate at rescue.org
Your contribution—big or small—can support life-saving aid and ensure that Myanmar earthquake relief efforts reach as many people as possible.
Caring for our own
In addition to international support, the Philippine government has set aside at least $100,000 (roughly ₱5.7 million) in financial assistance for Filipinos in Myanmar who were affected by the disaster. This ensures that our kababayans receive the care and protection they deserve, even while living abroad.
Pride in service
Missions like this serve as a reminder that Filipino expertise, compassion, and courage are not limited by geography. We may be a nation prone to disasters ourselves, but we never hesitate to extend a helping hand to others.
As we continue to witness the unfolding of Myanmar earthquake relief efforts, may we also recognize the quiet strength of those who serve—medical personnel, rescuers, and volunteers who choose to act rather than turn away.
The Philippines stands with Myanmar. And once again, the world sees what it means to be Filipino.
