Manny Pacquiao is stepping in to help his home country after a powerful earthquake struck the southern Philippines, launching a fundraising campaign through the Manny Pacquiao Foundation to support families impacted by the disaster. The boxing icon announced emergency relief efforts this week as officials continue assessing the damage caused by the magnitude-7.8 quake that rocked Mindanao.
According to the BBC, the earthquake hit off the coast of Mindanao on Monday morning, June 8, leaving at least 35 people dead, more than 130 injured, and thousands displaced from their homes. Authorities reported widespread destruction across affected communities, including collapsed buildings, landslides, and damage to public infrastructure. Government officials also confirmed that more than 10,000 families were forced to evacuate, while dozens of aftershocks continued to rattle the region in the hours that followed.
For Pacquiao, the tragedy hits especially close to home. The former world champion rose to international fame after growing up in General Santos City, which was affected by the earthquake. Long before becoming one of boxing's biggest stars, Pacquiao's story was closely tied to Mindanao, making his response to the disaster deeply personal. Through his foundation, he is now helping coordinate both immediate relief and longer-term recovery efforts for impacted communities.
In a message posted alongside the GoFundMe fundraiser, Pacquiao acknowledged the emotional toll of the disaster. “Today, my heart is heavy,” he wrote. He described General Santos City as “the place that shaped my life” and said families throughout the region are facing grief, uncertainty, and significant hardship.
Pacquiao also thanked first responders, rescue workers, medical teams, and volunteers for their efforts while urging supporters to pray for those affected.
The fundraiser outlines a broad relief plan, with donations earmarked for food, clean water, temporary shelter, medical supplies, hygiene kits, and assistance for vulnerable residents.
The campaign also aims to support longer-term rebuilding projects, including community recovery and infrastructure restoration.
As of this writing, the GoFundMe campaign has raised roughly $2,500 toward its $6,000 goal.
