Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday has expressed grief over the loss of lives and widespread damage caused by the earthquake in the Philippines.
In a social media post, PM Modi said, his thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. The Prime Minister also wished for speedy recovery of the injured saying that India stands in solidarity with the Philippines at this difficult time.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Deeply saddened to learn about the loss of lives and the widespread damage caused by the earthquake in the Philippines. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, and I wish the injured a speedy recovery. India stands in solidarity with the Philippines during this difficult time.”
The death toll from a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck the central Philippines has risen to 69, officials confirmed on Wednesday. Rescue teams are searching for survivors after one of the strongest quakes in a decade struck the country, according to media reports.
The earthquake hit late Tuesday off the coast of Cebu island, causing widespread power outages. The number of missing persons remains unclear.
Seismology agencies reported the quake’s depth at approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) and recorded multiple aftershocks, the strongest registering magnitude 6.
Authorities have confirmed there was no tsunami threat.
Situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the Philippines is prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. Earlier this year, the country experienced two major quakes in January with no casualties.
A 6.7-magnitude offshore earthquake in 2023 claimed eight lives.
Videos shared on local media showed residents fleeing collapsing buildings, including a century-old church.