Manila: Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Ministry have joined other countries in sending sympathies to the Philippines and the victims of the powerful tremor that jolted Cebu and parts of the Visayas on Sept. 30.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a message to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. dated Oct. 1, the Japanese leader said Japan continues to stand with the Philippines in ‘overcoming this time of difficulties.’ He expressed his sadness and concern upon hearing the news of many lives lost and serious damages inflicted on vast areas of central Philippines due to the earthquake offshore of Cebu Province. On behalf of the Japanese government and people, he extended heartfelt condolences to the victims and expressed sympathy to their families and those affected.

The UAE Foreign Ministry expressed the Arab state’s sincere condolences to the bereaved families and wished the province and those injured a speedy recovery.

Cebu province has been placed under a state of calamity following the massive quake. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that the death toll rose to 72, all from Central Visayas. The council is also verifying reports of 294 injuries in the same region.