Philippines responders to Myanmar quake get P6.9 million from PAGCOR

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) has provided cash incentives to Filipino responders deployed in Myanmar, which was hit by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in March.

During a ceremonial turnover at Camp Aguinaldo on July 4, PAGCOR gave P6.9 million to the members of the Philippine Inter-Agency Humanitarian Contingent (PIAHC) and Philippine Air Force.

“We will always support efforts that reflect the best of who we are as a people: resilient, selfless and ready to help those in need wherever they may be,” PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer Alejandro Tengco said.

Thirty-eight responders received P50,000 each in recognition of their 12-day dedication to humanitarian and search-and-rescue missions in Myanmar.

The PIAHC team was sent to Myanmar on April 1. The contingent was composed of personnel from the Office of Civil Defense, Department of Health, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Emergency Response Team.

In coordination with local authorities, the contingent extended medical and logistical assistance following the earthquake in Myanmar, which claimed more than 2,000 lives and left close to 4,000 people injured.

During their deployment, the Philippine team set up and managed a Type 1 Fixed Field Hospital in Pyinmana, Naypyidaw, where they attended to 1,056 patients with a range of medical concerns.

Contingent commander Lt. Col. Erwen Diploma said the financial support affirms that the sacrifices of Filipino responders are seen and appreciated.

“This support from PAGCOR is a strong message that the efforts of Filipino humanitarian responders are valued and recognized,” Diploma said.

Tengco said the agency would always be prepared to support the country’s humanitarian missions abroad.

In 2023, PAGCOR granted P4.1 million to 82 Philippine responders deployed in Turkey for humanitarian work.