Myanmar: Powerful earthquake strikes Don Bosco-Mandalay, causing widespread devastation

A massive earthquake measuring over 7 on the Richter scale struck Myanmar and Thailand at 12:53 PM on March 28, 2025, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.

Thousands are feared dead as buildings and infrastructure collapsed across both countries, with Myanmar’s Sagaing Division and Mandalay among the hardest-hit regions. 

Mandalay City witnessed extensive destruction, with high-rise buildings, pagodas, mosques, and churches reduced to rubble.

The historic Sagaing Bridge over the Irrawaddy River also sustained severe damage, with sections collapsing into the water. 

The Don Bosco community in Anisakan, Mandalay, bore the brunt of the disaster as the epicenter of the earthquake.

The St. John Paul II Chapel suffered significant structural damage, with the collapse of its facade and parts of its walls, injuring two faithful who were in Adoration at the time. 

Additional damage was reported in the street children’s residence, where sections of the ceiling and walls gave way, as well as in the confreres’ quarters, where cement plaster crumbled from rooms and corridors.

Three people, including two faithful and one street boy, sustained minor injuries. 

In Anisakan, known for its many religious institutions, several buildings belonging to the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) suffered cracks.

At the Provincialate Community, the St. Joseph Chapel sustained deep cracks behind the altar, and the statue of St. Joseph was broken at its pedestal. 

In the wake of the disaster, Fr. Edward Sein Myint, SDB, appealed for prayers and support, stating: 

"We would very much appreciate your prayers for our people in this time of calamity, when humanitarian aid, communication, and transportation are severely hindered due to the ongoing political crisis."

With relief efforts facing significant challenges, the Don Bosco community in Mandalay continues to assess the damage and provide support to those affected while calling for solidarity and assistance from the global community.