THE European Union (EU) has pledged to donate more than €9.75 million, or around P660 million, in humanitarian assistance to support Philippine communities, particularly in Cebu, affected by recent earthquakes and typhoons.
EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro visited San Remigio in northern Cebu to assess needs confirming that the funds will provide shelter, water and electricity through a consortium of 14 international and local nongovernment organizations (NGOs).
In a press conference on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, Santoro said the EU initially allocated €6 million (P408 million) for the Philippines in 2025; but the severity of the latest disasters prompted Brussels to release an additional €3.75 million (P252 million).
The EU is composed of 27 member countries including Spain, Belgium, Croatia, Netherlands, Greece, France, Portugal and Germany.
Santoro said the funds aim to support families who lost homes and access to basic services such as electricity and clean water.
Santoro explained that EU member states also provide extra support through other global channels, including the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement and various United Nations programs.
“We want to make sure the aid reaches the people who need it the most,” Santoro said.
“(That) The money goes where it is supposed to go. It goes to the people,” he added.
“Meaningful” site visit
During his visit to San Remigio, Santoro spoke with families in one of the town’s hardest-hit barangays, who openly shared what it felt like to lose their homes and face uncertainty about when they could rebuild.
Santoro said the conversations helped him understand the daily challenges they endure especially during heavy rain when temporary shelters offer little protection.
He noted that EU-funded support on the ground includes setting up temporary shelters, helping restore electricity, ensuring access to water and providing systems for water sanitation.
He said EU’s efforts are being carried out alongside local and national government actions.
Santoro also met with the mayor of San Remigio, Gov. Pamela Baricuatro and Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival to discuss ongoing recovery efforts and the needs of affected communities.
He described his day-long visit as intense but meaningful.
“I witnessed firsthand the resilience of Filipino families,” Santoro said.
“It is never enough because the population is large and the needs are significant. But what we are doing together with our partners is real,” he added.
The ambassador plans to continue conducting field visits to ensure the EU’s support remains responsive to the needs of disaster-hit communities. / ABC