Earthquake, Philippines
October 2019
Photo: CERILO EBRANO, EPA-EFE
Humanitarian Needs
Three strong earthquakes (magnitude 6.3, 6.6, and 6.5) consecutively shook the province of North Cotabato in the Philippines within a span of two weeks from October 16-31, 2019, affecting some 266,575 people. There has been widespread infrastructure damage and many people have lost their homes, possessions and livelihoods. Water systems have also been severely damaged, rendering 95 of 100 barangays without water supply.
Humanitarian Response
Plan is responding to this crisis by addressing the most pressing needs of affected communities through cash assistance and access to safe and dignified hygiene supplies, and hygiene awareness.
Multi-purpose cash assistance will be made available to families so they can provide for their own food, shelter and essential household needs. Plan will conduct community awareness sessions on gender equality, child protection, and building back better.
To meet the needs in the area of water, sanitation and hygiene, Plan is distributing water and hygiene kits, and conducting awareness training on hygiene practices.