The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has mobilized a nationwide relief and spiritual campaign to support communities devastated by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Sarangani and various areas in Mindanao on Monday morning.
CBCP President and Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera expressed his deep solidarity with the victims, emphasizing that the Church is committed to helping those who are grieving, injured, or displaced.
“We grieve with the families who have lost loved ones, pray for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured, and stand in spiritual communion with all those who have been displaced from their homes and livelihoods,” Garcera said in a statement.
The powerful tremor occurred at 7:37 a.m., with its epicenter located offshore near the town of Maasim. The event prompted the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to issue temporary tsunami warnings for nine coastal provinces across Mindanao.
To bolster the Church’s response, Garcera instructed all Catholic institutions across the country to integrate dedicated petitions into their upcoming liturgical services.
“I therefore request all dioceses, parishes, religious communities, and Catholic institutions throughout the country to offer a special Prayer of the Faithful during all Masses next Sunday for the victims of the earthquake, for those engaged in rescue and relief operations, and for the swift recovery of the affected communities,” he said.
Furthermore, the CBCP head directed bishops to initiate fundraising efforts to finance rehabilitation centers in the heavily affected regions.
“Likewise, I appeal to all bishops to authorize a second collection in their respective dioceses during the Sunday Masses of June 14, 2026,” Garcera added.
The collected funds will be overseen by diocesan social action centers alongside Caritas Philippines. The proceeds are designated to provide essential aid, including food packs, clean water, and medical supplies, for the displaced families.