Catholic aid agencies in coordination with local dioceses and authorities are spearheading efforts to assist people affected by a major 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu, central Philippines this week. Caritas Philippines, the humanitarian, development, and advocacy arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, is at the forefront of relief efforts in the affected areas. “In the spirit of mercy, solidarity, and fraternal cooperation among Caritas Philippines’ network, we stand with the people of Cebu,” Jeanie Curiano, the humanitarian head of Caritas Philippines, told CNA on Oct. 3. Caritas Philippines has begun relief efforts, sending rice, drinking water, and shelter repair kits, while rapid assessment teams coordinate next steps. Caritas Cebu deployed an assessment team to the most affected areas, awaiting initial findings and data.