In a remarkable show of international solidarity, a humanitarian team from the UAE became the first foreign group to reach Glan, a town in the southern Philippines struggling in the wake of a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Even as the team worked on the ground, they faced constant danger, including a 5.3 magnitude aftershock that struck while they were coordinating with local leadership. Despite the unstable conditions and the constant threat of landslides blocking essential supply routes, the UAE team successfully delivered 20,000 food packs to help families who have lost their homes and livelihoods.

Mayor Victor James Yap expressed deep appreciation for the aid, noting that with 24,000 families currently displaced and vital infrastructure—including the local hospital and schools—deemed structurally unsafe, the assistance is a critical lifeline. UAE Ambassador Mohamed Obaid Salem Al Qatam Alzaabi visited the affected areas, including makeshift field hospitals and evacuation centers, to personally oversee the relief efforts. The UAE aid mission is committed to remaining on the ground over the coming days to ensure that essential water and food supplies reach the most isolated communities still reeling from the disaster.