Day 370: October 5, 2025 – Cebu, Philippines

Shortly before our arrival in Cebu, central Philippines, a deadly 6.9 earthquake hit the area. 69 people are confirmed dead and thousands homeless, with heavy damage to infrastructure.

The area where the Odyssey docked was not heavily impacted, but relief operations were being organized nearby, giving us the opportunity to jump in and help.

Led by several dedicated and motivated shipmates, within 24 hours Odyssey residents raised over $16,000 in donations and arranged for the port agent to deliver supplies to a distribution center, as well as to help some of our crew members whose families were impacted by the quake.

Dozens of us then worked in shifts over two days to help create temporary housing kits and load supplies onto trucks heading to the affected areas. The quake was followed by thousands of aftershocks, and many families are still sleeping on the ground. Supplies included tarps, tents, blankets, water, food, mosquito coils and personal hygiene items.

Bucket brigade passing supplies to be loaded onto truck.

Operations logistical map at the relief center. We are in Cebu City, in the center of the island. This deployment of supplies was going to Tabuelan (circled).

The Sunday afternoon shift of Odysseans, along with student volunteers from a local college and World Central Kitchen staff.

In between tasks, we enjoyed interacting with the student volunteers. This is me with Maddie, Paul, and Jiliane; they are in a science program at the college. They are the faces of the Philippines in my Faces of the World Gallery.

Statement from Philippines Department of Tourism: