The Cebu Provincial Government clarified that no permits are needed for individuals or groups who wish to extend aid to communities affected by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake in northern Cebu.
“The Cebu Provincial Government clarifies that no permits are required for private individuals or groups transporting relief goods to northern Cebu. Those who wish to deliver aid directly may do so without needing to register with the province,” the Capitol announced in a Facebook post on Thursday, October 2.
However, it added that donations coursed through the provincial government will still be received and recorded at its Command Center.
“Donations coursed through the Capitol, however, will be received and recorded at the Command Center to ensure transparency, proper documentation, and accountability, and to guarantee that assistance reaches intended beneficiaries,” the statement read.
In a related post, the Cebu provincial government expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from volunteers but said it would temporarily halt the acceptance of new volunteers to maintain order.
“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming enthusiasm and generosity of those who have stepped forward to volunteer. At this point, however, we will be pausing the acceptance of new volunteers so that we can remain organized and efficient in our response,” it said.
“This is not the end of our efforts; on the contrary, we are preparing for sustained work in the coming days, and we will certainly call on your continued support as needs arise. Thank you for your understanding and for standing with us in these trying times,” it added.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) earlier confirmed that the magnitude 6.9 quake that hit Bogo City on September 30 also shook other parts of Cebu and nearby areas in the Visayas.