A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on June 8, affecting approximately 1.62 million people. More than 80,000 individuals remain displaced.

AAR Japan (Association for Aid and Relief, Japan) distributed food and hygiene supplies to households with persons with disabilities—those particularly vulnerable to the impact of the disaster. Shiori Kiryu, a member of AAR’s emergency response team, reports from the field.

AAR conducted needs assessments through home visits to persons with disabilities living in General Santos City on the island of Mindanao, one of the areas most severely affected by the earthquake. Based on the findings, AAR worked with the local government’s Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) to distribute relief items to 234 individuals who had been pushed into especially vulnerable situations, including those who lost their jobs.

The distributions took place on June 23 and 24, providing food items such as rice, instant noodles, canned goods, and drinking water, as well as hygiene products including soap, toothbrushes, and shampoo. On the 23rd, distribution was held in the San Jose district, and on the 24th in locations such as Upper Labay, using venues like basketball courts and local government offices. Because it is difficult for many persons with disabilities to carry heavy supplies on their own, beneficiaries were asked to come with a companion. Supplies were handed individually to each person by AAR and PDAO staff.

“The ground shook violently, and things came crashing down throughout the house. Since I cannot see, I panicked.” recalls Merly, a woman with visual impairment living in General Santos City.

She lives with her husband and two children. The family relied on her husband’s income as a driver. However, the earthquake damaged roads in mountainous areas, and the number of customers dropped sharply afterward, making it impossible for him to continue working.

After receiving the aid, Merly said with relief:
“I didn’t expect to receive so much. With our income gone, this food support is truly a great help.”

Other recipients also expressed their gratitude, saying things such as:
“Thank you for coming all the way from Japan,” and
“Please continue to support others who are also struggling.”

Many households that include persons with disabilities have lost their sources of income, so AAR is planning to provide cash assistance as well. With no clear outlook for recovery, survivors continue to face serious challenges.

AAR kindly asks for your continued support for its emergency assistance for the Philippines earthquake.