Church Coordinates Relief Efforts After Earthquake in Cebu

After the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu, Philippines on October 2, 2025, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came together to help one another and their neighbors in need.

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National Impact of the Earthquake

According to reports from the Philippine government and national media, the earthquake, one of the strongest to hit the region in recent years, was felt across several provinces in Central and Eastern Visayas. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) noted that the tremor caused structural damage, triggered landslides in mountainous areas, and led to the collapse of several buildings. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries nationwide, with thousands of families displaced.

Government and media accounts further stated that infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power lines, sustained significant damage, limiting rescue and relief operations. Local governments declared states of calamity in Cebu and neighboring provinces, allowing emergency funds to be released and relief distribution to begin. Losses to homes, businesses, schools, and transportation systems are projected in the millions.

Latter-day Saint Members and Missionaries

Thousands of Church members in Cebu and nearby areas have been directly affected. While some sustained minor injuries, more than a thousand were evacuated to safer locations. Several homes were reported damaged, leaving families without shelter.

Church leaders confirmed that all full time missionaries serving in the affected areas are safe and accounted for. Several meetinghouses are currently serving as evacuation centers for hundreds of displaced residents. Because aftershocks are still being felt, many families have chosen to remain within Church facilities for their safety.

Relief Efforts by Members

Despite facing their own needs, Latter-day Saints in Cebu have joined together to serve others. Members donated hot meals, water, hygiene kits, tents, tarpaulins, and other essential supplies through local stakes that established relief centers. Hundreds of volunteers, including youth and young single adults, assisted in repacking and distributing relief goods for affected families.

Continuing Church Support

The Church continues to assess conditions in coordination with government and community partners to ensure the delivery of food, water, sanitation, and other urgent needs. Local leaders expressed gratitude for the generosity and resilience of members who, even in the midst of personal loss, chose to serve their neighbors.

Latter-day Saints who require support are encouraged to contact their local bishop or branch president.

For many years, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided humanitarian assistance around the world during times of natural disasters, civil unrest, and other crises. This support includes immediate relief such as food, water, clothing, and medical supplies as well as long term recovery and rebuilding efforts.