MANDALUYONG CITY — On 19 January 2026, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) received a donation of Php 150,000 in cash and 20 sets of solar lights from the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila and the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines (MCCI) to support communities in Cebu affected by the recent earthquake and typhoons.

The Embassy of Malaysia and the MCCI has long been a reliable humanitarian partner of the Philippine Red Cross, extending support during major emergencies, including previous in-kind donations for families affected by typhoons and floods. The provision of solar lights reflects a shared focus on practical and sustainable solutions that help improve safety and living conditions, especially during power outages and disaster response operations.

“This donation reflects ASEAN solidarity in action. Through the support of the Embassy of Malaysia and the MCCI, we are able to extend timely, life-saving assistance to more communities in need.” said PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon. 

“This generous support from the Malaysian Embassy and the MCCI means we can be there for more families when disaster strikes. Every donation helps us reach people in their most urgent moments and show them they’re not alone,” said PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang.

“We appreciate the work of the Philippine Red Cross across the country, especially in Cebu. When we went on the ground, we saw firsthand how often disasters strike here and we clearly saw the PRC actively responding and present on the ground,” said Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony.

“While the financial aid assists with immediate needs, the solar lights represent our commitment to disaster response and preparedness. In the wake of disasters, light becomes more than just a utility—it also becomes safety, security, and hope. Through this, the Malaysian community stands in solidarity with the Philippines, especially the communities affected by the earthquake and typhoons in Cebu,” said MCCI President How Han Hui.

The Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines is the first ASEAN member country to establish a business chamber in the Philippines. It has continuously engaged the Malaysian private sector in supporting humanitarian and development initiatives, demonstrating the important role of businesses in humanitarian action.