Croatia pledges P6.76-M donation for earthquake victims in PH
Croatia Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman speaks to some members of the Philippine media after his bilateral meeting with DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025. (Raymund Antonio/MANILA BULLETIN)
Visiting Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman announced on Monday, Oct. 13, his government’s decision to donate 100,000 euros (approximately P6.76 million) for the Philippine government’s response to the multiple earthquakes that hit the country in recent weeks.
The official, who became the first Croatian foreign minister to visit Manila, is in the country for a bilateral meeting with Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.
“To begin with, I wish to convey my sincerest sympathies for the recent earthquakes that resulted in the loss of human lives,” he said during a joint press conference after the meeting.
“I'm glad to inform you that the government of Croatia has decided to make a 100,000 euros contribution to the Philippines,” he added.
Radman underscored the values shared by the two countries, including in their commitments to maintain peace, stability, and prosperity.
“Croatia and the Philippines as a key partner, crucial partner in promoting global and regional stability, democratic governance, and multilateral diplomacy,” the foreign minister stated.
He added that he had “an open and fruitful conversation and sincere exchange of views on a number of important topics” with Lazaro and that he expects there will be “concrete result” in the two countries’ enhanced cooperation.
Earlier, the governments of the United States and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) also provided assistance to the Philippines.
The provinces of Cebu and Davao have been hit by strong quakes less than two weeks apart, with Davao Oriental experiencing magnitudes 7.4 and 6.9 on Friday, Oct. 10. Another 4.8-magnitude earthquake—an aftershock of the 7.4 quake—jolted it on Sunday, Oct. 12.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said that the earthquakes have affected more than 490,000 people, and has so far killed eight.