After the earthquake in Myanmar, the local Chinese community and overseas Chinese quickly mobilized into a crucial rescue force. 

Before official aid arrived, they were already on the front lines, offering assistance and fighting to save lives.

Disaster victims collect supplies in a disaster-stricken area in Mandalay. [Photo courtesy of Tang Jianzu]

Cao Yating, a 27-year-old Chinese in Yangon, took action on the night of the earthquake. She posted an urgent call for volunteers to head to Mandalay, the hardest-hit area.

"We organized everything ourselves, without a formal structure. A WeChat group filled up instantly. People donated money and supplies, forming teams that rushed to Mandalay at incredible speed.”

By the early hours of the 29th, Cao's 15-person team reached the disaster zone and immediately teamed up with local firefighters to begin rescue efforts. Their goal was to save as many lives as possible within the critical 72-hour golden window.

"When we arrived at 1 AM, neither the rescue teams nor we rested. We used life detectors to check each site, staying awake all night.”

Despite severe road damage in Yangon, which turned a five-hour drive into a 14-hour journey, volunteers drove their own cars, bringing supplies and determination to help.

Cao also noted the growing public support.

Disaster victims collect supplies in a disaster-stricken area in Mandalay. [Video courtesy of Tang Jianzu]

"People from across Myanmar and China have been messaging me, asking how to send supplies and donate money. Nearly 100 people have donated so far.”

"The heat was unbearable—over 40 degree celsius. The ground was so hot it felt like walking on fire. I can't imagine the suffering of those trapped under the rubble. It's heartbreaking, but the selflessness of the Chinese community and other Myanmar citizens is heartening.”

Tang Jianzu, an overseas Chinese and rescue team member, hoped to save more lives before international teams arrived.

"It's been four days with little rest. I've seen families in distress, pleading for help. I've been updating the situation in real-time, assuring them we’ll do everything we can. Myanmar's fire teams are still working hard, and we continue our efforts.”

Injured civilians and monks rest inside a temporarily set-up tent. [Photo courtesy of Tang Jianzu]

Tang and the firefighters barely slept. When exhaustion hit, they would rest briefly before continuing their work. 

By the early hours of the 30th, just as Tang was preparing to return and rest, he encountered the Blue Sky Rescue Team, which had arrived from China. 

He decided not to leave and stayed behind to assist with coordinating efforts between the local and Chinese volunteer groups, helping them familiarize themselves with the area and taking on translation duties.