TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Emergency supplies provided by Taiwan’s Dharma Drum Mountain (DDM) charity foundation arrived in Mandalay, Myanmar, on Friday, delivering much-needed aid to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country late last month.

DDM Secretary General Chang Hsing (常惺) led a disaster relief team along with two trucks carrying emergency supplies. Upon arrival in Mandalay, the team quickly established a disaster relief service center, according to DDM. With the assistance of local volunteers, supplies were unloaded and distributed to surrounding communities.

On Saturday, the Mahakonan Monastery and the Love Myanmar Foundation received portions of the aid, which were then sent to hard-to-reach disaster zones where relief efforts have been limited.

Manitalinkara Abhivamsa of Mahakonan Monastery said that many residents sought refuge around the monastery after the earthquake. In line with the Buddhist spirit of compassion, the monastery offered shelter to those in need. However, there is now a shortage of essential supplies, including rice, cooking oil, clean water, waterproof tarps, and straw mats.

DDM said the relief mission is a collaborative effort with Ming Te Food Industry Corporation, which donated the emergency goods. Deliveries are being carried out with the help of local organizations, including the Love Myanmar Foundation, to reach remote mountainous areas around Mandalay where access remains difficult.