Supporting Disaster Relief in the Philippines
A digital advocacy letter on raising awareness, and supporting communities affected by recent disasters.
My Story
As a second-generation immigrant, my experience as a Filipino American has differed greatly from my family who still lives there. The distance is something I've always known, and has been apart of me --- but it never feels far when natural disaster strikes.Whether it's a typhoon, flood, storm, or earthquake, you can't help but wonder and check up on your family from back home. One thing about my family is that we're very communicative --- staying in contact in times of crisis, sending updates, and reassuring loved ones is a must.Growing up in America, my connection to the Philippines often showed up in smaller, everyday things --- from learning about where my family is from/originated to making little gifts and buying American food in bulk to send within our balikbayan boxes along with donated clothing. These boxes were our way of sharing pieces of ourselves all the way from America, a reminder that even from an ocean away, we were still apart of each other's lives.As I got older, I started to understand and realize the severity of some of these disasters. Even if my family isn't directly affected by some of them, it's still devastating to see how much damage can occur. From homes being flooded/destroyed, to schools and establishments being wiped out. It becomes more real and impactful to read news headlines when you don't know if it's somewhere/someone you know.The distance between my family and I doesn't erase my responsibility or connection. It makes me more aware of how privileged I am to be able to raise awareness and support my loved ones from the comfort and safety of where I live.
The Issue
The Philippines, as a third-world country, experiences some of the most severe natural disasters.What's Happening?
- The Philippines is hit by about 20 tropical cyclones each year
- The country endures around an average of 20 earthquakes per day
- Many lose power, clean water, communication, belongings, etc.
- In 2024, more than 1 million families were forced from their homes
- Recovery can take months, to years, and many may never even be able to rebuild
Why This Matters?
For many, these events are life-altering and more than just a headline. The damage of these events don't just disappear when the storm passes --- families are left without homes, without shelter, communication to loved ones, economy plummets, and children aren't able to attend school. So much of a community is affected when these disasters strike --- this is why our voices and support matter in times of need.“We have lost everything. We don’t have a home. We need help. We have no place to sleep, no food, nothing to use. We only have torn clothes. We just need food, rice, anything to eat, but we have nothing.”
How Can You Help
How You Can Support Disaster Relief in the PhilippinesEven from across the world, our voices matter in supporting the families and individuals affected by disasters. We have the power to spread awareness and take action to help communities and loved ones.
Take Action
Philippine-Based Organizations
Emergency response, rescue, medical support, etc.
Rebuilds homes and community infrastructure
Provides meals, relief goods, and support to families that are affected by flooding
International Relief Organizations
Ensures children have shelter, safety, education, etc.
Emergency response, rescue, medical support, etc.
Other ways to support
- Share donation links
- Use your voice to educate others/spread awareness on the issue
- Be creative/use your skills when spreading awareness (social media, design, writing, etc.)Relief efforts help these families in need rebuild their homes, feed their families, restore community, and ensures support reaches those who need it most.
Works Cited
- CARE. The Philippines Devastated by Three Major Disasters in Eight Days. CARE, 3 Oct. 2025, www.care.org/media-and-press/the-philippines-devastated-by-three-major-disasters-in-eight-days/
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CARE- Reuters. PERSONAL: ‘We Lost Everything,’ Survivors Confront Destruction After Typhoon Hits Philippines. Reuters, 5 Nov. 2025, https://www.reutersconnect.com/item/personal-we-lost-everything-survivors-confront-destruction-after-typhoon-hits-philippines/dGFnOnJldXRlcnMuY29tLDIwMjU6bmV3c21sX1ZBOTUxMzA1MTEyMDI1UlAx
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Reuters Connect- Statista. Natural Disasters in the Philippines at a Glance. Statista, https://www.statista.com/topics/5845/natural-disasters-in-the-philippines-at-a-glance/?srsltid=AfmBOooZMK3Xwopb5Q3WQ5NVvXuMnwemrGJvjPl4FbmF02DxuTSt
. Accessed – (Note: Include the access date you used in your paper — e.g., 11 Dec. 2025.)