The 5 day immersion trip (April 17-21) to Myanmar, after Rod’s first visit last April 4-11 (read article here: GAiN-Visits-Myanmar), was not only successful but had also opened doors for Global Aid Network. The travelling team from the Philippines consisting of doctors, a nurse, a dentist, and teachers carried the heart for the people there affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that happened March 28, 2025. Unbeknownst to the group, the experience and knowledge gained from the short-term trip would not only benefit the Myanmar people, but also empower and educate future teams who will follow and aid the Myanmar communities in need.
Because of military government restrictions and the ongoing civil war, the team was required to be ever more resourceful of what they had and what they could do. Partnering with the locals brought the team very near and deep into the country’s most affected areas. The team visited 6 different locations surrounding the epicenter of the earthquake, and assisted in trauma debriefing sessions and classes, play therapy for the kids, as well as lectures on Disaster Preparedness, First Aid, & Health. Food and nonfood relief packages were also distributed by our local partners to the communities we visited.
At this time there still remains deep hopelessness and helplessness among the Myanmar people. With decades of junta government and now the 7.7 magnitude earthquake, people feel lost. In the epicenter and even in areas surrounding, victims are still sleeping on the streets after losing their houses and livelihood. A lot of bridges and buildings have collapsed, and loved ones are still buried under debris. Their economy is collapsing, resulting in inflation. There is unrest due to the still ongoing civil war. Aid from the outside is, now more than ever, necessary but tragically scares due to government restrictions that make securing entry complicated and challenging.
GAiN Philippines has had the privilege to learn from and assist those aiding the suffering in Myanmar. We intend to continue reaching out to and doing more for communities in need. Other countries who seem worlds away with different kinds of people, culture, language, and norm–but very evidently suffering–are no different when it comes to the relief, hope, and dignity that they deserve.
Sincerely,
Global Aid Network – GAiN Philippines
Board Members:
Rodolfo Santos
Efigenio Fermin Jr.
Wendell Asuncion
Reulin Galan
Christopher Uy