Taiwan has contributed another $500,000 in cash to aid Filipino communities recovering from a series of recent natural disasters, including typhoons “Tino” and super typhoon “Uwan.”

Ambassador Wallace Chow of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines formally handed over the donation last 21 November 2025, to Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) chairperson Corazon Padiernos.

Chow highlighted the shared experience of natural disasters, recalling how super typhoon “Nando” caused a deadly barrier lake overflow and mudslides in his hometown of Hualien County last September, resulting in 20 deaths and the destruction of hundreds of homes.

He said this shared hardship enables the Taiwanese people to “empathize even more deeply” with the suffering in the Philippines.

The cash donation follows an earlier contribution this month of $250,000 worth of relief goods, which included essential supplies like water purification equipment, blankets, tents, and solar lamps.

“In the spirit of bayanihan (communal unity) and mutual support,” Chow said, Taiwan hopes its expression of “care, love, and solidarity will bring comfort and assistance” to the affected families. He also reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and deepening cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Padiernos accepted the donation, expressing “heartfelt gratitude” to the government and people of Taiwan for their consistent and swift support during times of adversity. She assured that all aid, both financial and in goods, will be directed to those most in need.

Also present at the ceremony were MECO board member Atty. Joseph Castillo and MECO head executive assistant Angeli Joyce Barafon.