More countries express support for PH after strong Cebu quake
THE wake of earthquake victims in Bogo City, northern Cebu province are held in tents. (Contributed photo)
More countries have conveyed their support and sympathy to the Philippines after the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that jolted Cebu last Tuesday night, Sept. 30.
European Union (EU) Ambassador Massimo Santoro expressed that the EU stands in solidarity with the Philippines in the tragic quake, which has claimed 72 lives as of Thursday, Oct. 2.
"Our deepest sympathy and condolences for the victims who perished in the earthquake in Cebu. The EU stands in solidarity," Santoro said in a post on X on Wednesday.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow also extended his country's condolences to the earthquake victims, adding that they stand ready to provide assistance in the recovery of affected communities.
"I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the Philippine Government and the people of the Republic of the Philippines following the recent earthquake in Cebu," Thailand's foreign minister said over X on Thursday.
"Thailand stands in solidarity with our Filipino friends and is ready to extend any assistance necessary in the ongoing recovery efforts," he told Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.
Lazaro thanked her Thai counterpart, saying the expression of support from the international community brings comfort to the victims.
"Thank you, Minister @SihasakPh, for your heartfelt message of sympathy and solidarity. The support of the international community brings comfort to the affected communities in this difficult time," Lazaro said.
Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar also sent Israel's condolences to the victims, expressing that they are ready to support the province in this difficult time.
"My deepest condolences, on behalf of Israel, to all affected by the Cebu earthquake. Our thoughts are with the victims and families. We stand with the Philippines and are ready to support at this time of crisis," Sa'ar said on X on Friday, Oct. 3.
P54-M aid from EU for typhoon victims
The EU has released over P54 million in humanitarian aid to help communities affected by the series of tropical cyclones hitting the country in past weeks.
According to the EU, the funding will help address the most urgent needs of people in the hardest hit areas, including communities that are also affected by conflict.
It will be used to provide emergency relief in areas such as shelter, health, and water and sanitation.
The new funding was in addition to the €6.5 million already allocated this year in humanitarian aid and disaster preparedness to the Philippines, including the €500 000 allocation in July.
The EU funding is being made available via the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) department of the European Commission.
The EU helps millions of victims of conflict and disasters around the world every year, providing assistance to the most vulnerable people on the basis of humanitarian needs.