The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has mobilized swift relief operations following the powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake that rocked Cebu and nearby provinces on Tuesday night, leaving dozens dead and hundreds injured.
Under the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., PCSO General Manager Mel Robles ordered all branch offices and Authorized Agent Corporations (AACs) to provide immediate aid to affected families.
Among the first responders were AAC partners Piona Trading and Supply Corp. and King Dragon Gaming and Amusement Corporation, which turned over food packs and other essentials to the Cebu Provincial Government on Wednesday. More AAC donations are on the way, reinforcing PCSO’s pledge of sustained support.
As part of its Charitimba relief initiative, PCSO also deployed evacuation supply kits—mosquito nets, plastic mats, blankets, slippers, flashlights, pillows, towels, and other necessities—which were airlifted to Cebu via C-130 aircraft Wednesday afternoon.
“Our thoughts are with our kababayans in Cebu and surrounding provinces,” Robles said. “We are working tirelessly to bring comfort in these difficult times. The spirit of bayanihan is alive in our efforts, and we urge everyone to remain resilient and united, knowing that help is on the way.”
PCSO emphasized that its response extends beyond medical and financial aid, aiming for a holistic approach that addresses the immediate needs of disaster-hit communities.
According to the Office of Civil Defense, the earthquake has so far claimed 63 lives and injured over 150 people. PCSO vowed to continue coordinating with government agencies and local authorities to support ongoing rescue, relief, and rehabilitation operations.