Kuala lumpur: MERCY Malaysia is mobilising its humanitarian response following the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck offshore near Sarangani, Mindanao, in the Philippines, with a team from Kuala Lumpur being prepared for deployment within the next 24 hours. According to BERNAMA News Agency, the humanitarian organisation stated that its Philippines Country Office is already on the ground supporting coordination efforts with local authorities and humanitarian partners as assessments of the disaster's impact continue. Immediate priorities are expected to include access to healthcare, emergency shelter, clean water, and essential relief assistance. The Kuala Lumpur team will support rapid assessments and help identify urgent humanitarian needs in affected communities. As a World Health Organisation (WHO)-verified Emergency Medical Team (EMT) Type 1 organisation, MERCY Malaysia said it stands ready to provide emergency medical assistance as part of a coordinated response effort. The organisation is also worki ng with regional partners, including the Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN), to facilitate information-sharing and response coordination. MERCY Malaysia president Datuk Dr Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus highlighted the ongoing risks faced by communities in the Philippines due to its location along active tectonic plate boundaries. He noted that repeated emergencies disrupt lives, damage infrastructure, and strain essential services. He stressed the importance of a fast, coordinated humanitarian response guided by the needs of those affected, emphasizing MERCY Malaysia's readiness to support local authorities and partners in delivering assistance. According to MERCY Malaysia, the Philippines continues to face frequent natural disasters, including earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and volcanic activity, which often affect health services, housing, and livelihoods. The organisation is appealing for public support to help provide emergency medical care, essential relief items, and other urgent assist ance to affected communities.