By Leslie Ann Aquino
The head of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued an urgent appeal for help for the earthquake victims in the Diocese of Kidapawan in Cotabato.
Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles
(ALI VICOY / MANILA BULLETIN)
CBCP president and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles issued the appeal on behalf of Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo whose diocese was among those affected by Wednesday's strong earthquake in Mindanao.
"The Diocese of Kidapawan has decided to do immediate relief work to serve evacuees either directly or in partnership with LGUs in the parishes of Mlang and Tulunan and other areas, especially in bringing needed water and food. We need you kind assistance for us to do this," read the appeal.
"Brothers and sisters, let us be in solidarity with the suffering people in these areas. Let us help the Diocese of Kidapawan bring relief and comfort to the suffering people there."
Valles also asked the faithful to continue praying for the quake victims.
"Let us not forget to continue praying to the Lord for the suffering people in these areas. Let us help the Diocese of Kidapawan bring relief and comfort to the suffering people there," he said.
Those who wish to donate may deposit to BPI Account Name: RCB Diocese of Kidapawan with Account Number:008663-0571-55.
Earlier, Caritas Manila also appealed for donations for the earthquake victims.
"We are knocking on your generous hearts to help our brothers and sisters in Cotabato," Father Anton Pascual, Caritas Manila executive director, said.
"The donations will be used for the relief and rehabilitation needs of our kababayans in Cotabato and nearby areas in Mindanao," he added.
Pascual said immediate needs include clean water, food, clothes, and hygiene items.
At least six people were killed after a 6.6-magnitude earthquake jolted Mindanao.
The casualties were recorded in separate locations following the powerful earthquake that struck off Tulunan town in North Cotabato.