On Thursday, Caritas Macau launched a fundraising campaign in Macau to assist those impacted by the storms in Portugal and Spain, citing the historical ties between the Chinese region and Portugal. The donations will be collected over three months and subsequently sent to Cáritas Portuguesa and Cáritas España through an existing partnership.
In statements to Lusa, Paul Pun, the Secretary-General of Caritas Macau, emphasized the “special connection” between Macau and Portugal, noting that many residents hold Portuguese nationality or have close relationships with Portuguese citizens. “Our colleagues are Portuguese, our neighbors are Portuguese, our partners are Portuguese. Perhaps our teachers are Portuguese,” he stated.
According to the 2021 Census, over 2,200 people born in Portugal live in Macau. The last estimate from the Consulate-General of Portugal in Macau and Hong Kong indicated around 155,000 Portuguese passport holders among the residents of Macau and Hong Kong.
In a note shared on social media, Caritas Macau expressed sorrow over the “devastating storms” that caused “catastrophic flooding” and landslides, resulting in the destruction of infrastructure and homes. The organization warned that thousands have been displaced and urgently need support, including access to clean water, food, and medical care, cautioning that the recovery process will be prolonged.
Paul Pun expressed confidence in the solidarity of the people of Macau, especially with the Lunar New Year approaching, one of the major celebrations in the Chinese calendar.
In Portugal, the passage of storms Kristin, Leonardo, and Marta resulted in 16 deaths, hundreds injured, and significant displacement, along with extensive material damage. The sixteenth victim was a 72-year-old man who fell while repairing a roof in Pombal and later died at the University Hospitals of Coimbra.
The regions of Centro, Lisbon, Vale do Tejo, and Alentejo were among the hardest hit, witnessing the destruction of homes and businesses, fallen trees, power outages, water supply disruption, and communication breakdowns, as well as the closure of roads, schools, and public transport. The Portuguese government has extended the state of calamity in 68 municipalities and announced support measures amounting to up to €2.5 billion.
