Davao: The European Union (EU) has released 450,000 euros (about PHP30.69 million) in humanitarian aid to support communities affected by the twin earthquakes that struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Oct. 10. In a statement on Monday, the EU said the assistance aims to provide relief to the affected families as well as ensure their access to shelter, clean water, sanitation, and other essential needs.

According to Philippines News Agency, of the total amount, 300,000 euros (PHP20.46 million) will be granted to the ACCESS consortium led by humanitarian organization CARE, which will prioritize interventions in shelter, water, and sanitation. The EU said the funding complements the consortium's ongoing response through the EU-funded rapid response mechanism that was immediately activated after the quakes.

Meanwhile, 150,000 euros (PHP10.23 million) will be allocated to the Philippine Red Cross to support the distribution of tents, sleeping kits, kitchen sets, and other household items to displaced families. The aid will also cover cash assistance, hot meals, clean water, and health services, as well as the establishment of safe spaces for children.

The funding forms part of the EU's contribution to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), which provides rapid financial assistance to national societies responding to natural disasters and emergencies. This latest assistance brings the EU's total humanitarian aid and disaster preparedness funding for the Philippines this year to 8.05 million euros (PHP549 million).

Earlier allocations included 1.3 million euros (PHP88.66 million) in response to tropical cyclones in July and September, and 750,000 euros (PHP51.15 million) to support communities affected by the previous earthquake in Cebu. The EU's humanitarian aid is channeled through its European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), which delivers emergency relief and support to vulnerable populations worldwide.

With headquarters in Brussels and a network of field offices across the globe, the EU said it continues to assist millions of disaster-affected individuals each year 'based on humanitarian needs, without discrimination.'