Embassies express sympathies, solidarity after Cebu earthquake
MANILA, Philippines (Updated 5:15 p.m.)— Embassies in Manila have expressed condolences and pledged support to the Philippines after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck Cebu on Tuesday night, September 30.
Latest information shows the quake has killed as many as 60 people, with numbers still expected to rise.
At least seven embassies have expressed sympathy for those affected by the earthquake as of Wednesday noon (October 1).
The United States and Canada said they were ready to assist the Philippine government's response to the earthquake.
"We stand ready to support the government's response as #FriendsPartnersAllies," US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson posted on social media, adding that the embassy was monitoring updates from PHIVOLCS.
The Canadian Embassy conveyed sympathy to affected communities, saying it “mourns the loss of lives” and is prepared to work with Philippine agencies, humanitarian partners, and the international community “to help meet urgent needs.”
The European Union, Germany, India, Slovenia, and Australia issued similar statements. EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro said the bloc “stands in solidarity” with the Philippines, while German Ambassador Andreas Pfaffernoschke said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.
India’s mission in Manila, the Embassy of Slovenia, and Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown likewise extended their condolences to the victims and their families.
The embassy messages came as authorities continued search and rescue efforts in Cebu, where the death toll has climbed past 60, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said Wednesday at a press conference.
The numbers are still expected to rise as the OCD said it is still "receiving additional numbers of reported casualties."
The quake's epicenter was 19 kilometers northeast of the city of Bogo, which has an estimated population of 90,000.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered agencies to swiftly provide aid to affected residents.
More than 300 aftershocks were recorded after the quake.
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