Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday extended his condolences to the victims of the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu province on Tuesday night. In a statement, Marcos said the government will provide immediate assistance to the affected areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and prayed for the safety of those injured and affected by the earthquake. He stated that Cabinet Secretaries are already on the ground to provide assistance and assess the damage caused by the earthquake and its aftershocks.
Marcos urged everyone to stay alert and follow advisories issued by local governments. He mentioned that the Office of the Civil Defense and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council are coordinating responses to ensure a swift and organized effort. The Department of Public Works and Highways is conducting road assessments, while the Department of Energy is working to restore the power supply.
The Department of Health has deployed additional personnel to hospitals, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development is delivering food and aid to affected individuals. Marcos assured the public that the Bureau of Fire and Protection is assisting in search and rescue operations, and the Philippine National Police is maintaining order and supporting rescue efforts.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology initially recorded the earthquake at magnitude 6.7, later upgrading it to 6.9. The tremor struck at 9:59 p.m. on Sept. 30, with its epicenter located 21 km northeast of Bogo City, Cebu.
Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III also extended his condolences to the quake victims. He conveyed Congress’s heartfelt sympathy to the families and all those affected by the earthquake in Cebu and nearby provinces. Dy mentioned coordination with concerned agencies and local government units to ensure immediate assistance, including medical services and basic necessities, in affected areas.
Dy stated that his office is working with representatives from affected districts to support aid efforts for constituents. He emphasized Congress’s readiness to help formulate necessary programs to assist victims and strengthen the country’s preparedness for future calamities. Dy reassured citizens that they are not alone amid this tragedy, with support from the House of Representatives and the entire nation.