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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH condoles with Switzerland as New Year celebration fire deaths reach 40

PH condoles with Switzerland as New Year celebration fire deaths reach 40

Published Jan 3, 2026 04:18 pm
The sealed off Le Constellation bar, where a devastating fire left dead and injured during the New Year's celebrations is seen in Crans-Montana, Swiss Alps, Switzerland, Friday morning, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/ Antonio Calanni)
The sealed off Le Constellation bar, where a devastating fire left dead and injured during the New Year's celebrations is seen in Crans-Montana, Swiss Alps, Switzerland, Friday morning, Jan. 2, 2026. (AP Photo/ Antonio Calanni)
The Philippine government has extended its heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of the Swiss Confederation following a tragic fire in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, that resulted in multiple deaths and injuries during New Year’s celebrations.
In a statement on Saturday, Jan. 3, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it was “deeply saddened” by the Jan. 1 incident and conveyed sympathy to the families of the victims and all those affected.
The DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Berne is closely monitoring developments and is coordinating with Swiss authorities to verify whether any Filipino nationals were affected by the fire.
“The Philippine Embassy in Berne stands ready to assist any Filipino national who may be affected in the fire,” the DFA said, adding that the embassy can be reached through [email protected] or its Assistance-to-Nationals hotline at +41 79 123 4567.
The statement did not indicate that any Filipino casualties had been confirmed as of posting.
Swiss authorities have reported that at least 40 people were killed and 119 others injured, many with severe burns, after a fire tore through the Le Constellation bar in the Valais ski resort town around 1:30 a.m. on Jan. 1.
The blaze erupted during crowded New Year’s Eve celebrations and quickly engulfed the venue, overwhelming emergency responders and local hospitals.
Initial investigations suggest the fire may have been triggered when sparkler candles on champagne bottles were held too close to the ceiling, igniting flammable materials and causing a rapid spread.
Victim identification has been challenging due to the severity of burns, and Swiss officials have warned the death toll could rise as more remains are identified.
Among the injured, many are in critical condition and have been transferred to specialized burn units across Switzerland and neighbouring countries.
International leaders have expressed sorrow and solidarity with Switzerland, with periods of national mourning declared as communities mourn those lost in one of the country’s most devastating recent civilian tragedies.
Crans-Montana, a popular alpine resort destination, typically draws tourists from around the world during the holiday season.

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DFA PH-Switzerland Crans-Montana
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