MANILA, Philippines — Three members of Taiwanese boy band F4 have donated P5 million to assist families affected by the recent earthquake in southern Mindanao.
Last June 8, a powerful magnitude 7.8 quake struck off Sarangani, killing residents, damaging buildings, and triggering tsunami warnings across parts of the region.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the offshore quake was caused by movement along the Cotabato Trench, the same structure linked to the deadly 1976 Moro Gulf earthquake and tsunami.
F4 members Jerry Yan, Vic Chou, and Vanness Wu joined fellow Taiwanese singer Ashin of Mayday in donating P2.5 million each to Operation Bayanihan of the GMA Kapuso Foundation and Sagip Kapamilya of the ABS-CBN Foundation.
The social media accounts for both charity foundations announced the donations, which come ahead of the "F Forever" Philippine tour stop this Saturday, June 27, at the Philippine Arena.
The GMA Kapuso Foundation said their donation would support relief and rehabilitation efforts for families devastated by Mindanao quake.
"Beyond their legendary artistry, the global superstars have consistently shown immense love for their Filipino fans," the charity said. "Through this immediate financial aid, they hope to bring urgent comfort and essential support to displaced communities striving to recover from the natural disaster."
It added that the contribution reflects F4's enduring bond with Filipinos, a connection that has strengthened over the years since the boy band starred in the popular 2001 television show "Meteor Garden."
The ABS-CBN Foundation similarly said that the donation will strengthen the relief work of Sagip Kapamilya, noting it has "joined forces with local partners and communities to deliver urgent aid, from hot meals and food packs to vital supplies and care for children and families."
The charity thanked the four artists, as well as concert promoter Live Nation Philippines, which is helming the local "F Forever" show, for their generosity and support.
"By coming together, we can spark hope and extend a helping hand to fellow Filipinos in their time of need," the ABS-CBN Foundation ended.
The ongoing "F Forever" concert will notably not include original member Ken Chou again following a reunion performance last December.