The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) expressed deep condolences to the people of the Philippines and all those affected by the devastating earthquake that shook the Cebu region. The department expressed sympathy to the families of the victims.
"Our thoughts are with the victims and their families," the MFA wrote on the social network X. The publication expresses hope for a swift and safe recovery. "May the recovery be quick and safe," the message also says.
Meanwhile, disaster services reported a growing number of victims. The earthquake, which measured 6.9 on the Richter scale, shook the central part of the Philippines. New data show that the death toll has now reached 69 people.
Government officials are actively mobilizing rescue teams, which are engaged in searching for survivors in the affected area. At the same time, efforts are focused on restoring key services, including electricity and water supply. Reuters reports on the large-scale efforts being made on the ground. An atmosphere of mourning and tension prevails at the scene. Rescuers are working around the clock, trying to extract survivors from the ruins. As the news of the death toll becomes increasingly alarming, the hope of finding more survivors still flickers.