Singapore Provides Aid and Condolences After Cebu Earthquake
Following a devastating 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu, Philippines on September 30, 2025, Singapore has extended its support and sympathy to the affected communities. The earthquake caused widespread damage and loss of life, prompting international aid efforts.
Singapore's Response to the Disaster
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong conveyed his condolences to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on October 2, expressing his sorrow for the loss of life and extensive damage caused by the earthquake. On behalf of the Singapore Government, PM Wong offered heartfelt sympathies to the victims' families and wished a swift recovery to those injured. He emphasized that Singapore, as an ASEAN member and close ally of the Philippines, "stands ready" to assist with ongoing relief and recovery operations.
Singapore Red Cross Donates to Relief Efforts
The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) has pledged SGD 50,000 (approximately PHP 2.2 million or USD 38,800) to support emergency relief efforts in Cebu. The funds will be channeled through the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) to address urgent needs, including medical aid, water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programs, and mental health and psychosocial support for survivors. SRC is also exploring deploying prepositioned water filters to affected communities.
On-the-Ground Relief Efforts and Challenges
The Philippine Red Cross has mobilized teams to conduct rapid assessments and provide emergency responses. These actions include dispatching blood units to the Cebu Provincial Hospital in Bogo City, deploying emergency medical service teams to support overwhelmed hospitals, and distributing food and clean water through food trucks and water tanks. However, recovery efforts are hampered by persistent rain, power outages, and damaged infrastructure.
The Earthquake's Devastation
As of October 2, the reported death toll in Cebu stood at 72, with an estimated 20,000 people displaced. Infrastructure across the central Philippines has suffered extensive damage, and the country continues to experience aftershocks. The Singapore Red Cross disaster surveillance team is also monitoring Tropical Cyclone Matmo, which is expected to impact the Philippines, potentially compounding the challenges faced by affected communities.
Ongoing Support and Solidarity
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Singapore is closely monitoring the situation and providing consular assistance to registered Singaporeans in the affected areas. President Marcos has ordered the release of over ₱200 million in aid to local governments and hospitals in Cebu, including cash assistance for displaced families. Singapore’s gesture of solidarity reinforces the growing international support for the Philippines as it recovers from this devastating earthquake.
