House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has issued a message of sympathy and support for ASEAN neighbors Myanmar and Thailand, which were recently struck with a strong 7.7 magnitude earthquake.

"Today, we grieve with the people of Myanmar and Thailand, who are enduring the unimaginable pain and loss brought by the powerful earthquake that struck their lands," Romualdez wrote on Facebook on Sunday morning, March 30.

"We feel the weight of your sorrow, and across the seas, your suffering echoes in the hearts of every Filipino," he said.

"In this moment of great hardship, we extend not only our deepest sympathies, but also our steadfast support. The Philippines, as a brother in the ASEAN family, stands ready to help in any way we can," he added.

ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

According to Romualdez, ASEAN member-nations are "bound not just by geography, but by a shared spirit of resilience and humanity". 

"And in that spirit, we will stand beside you—as neighbors, as friends, as one community," said the Leyte 1st district representative.

"May strength and hope find their way into your hearts. And may we all continue to lift Myanmar and Thailand in our prayers," the House leader further said.

Reports said that the death toll from the two countries resulting from the earthquake has reached over 1,600.