PM expresses condolences after deadly earthquake hits Philippines

New Delhi, Oct 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extensive damage caused by a powerful earthquake in the central Philippines and extended his wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.

He affirmed India’s solidarity with the Philippines during this difficult time. Taking to X, PM Modi said: “Deeply saddened to learn about the loss of lives and widespread damage caused by the earthquake in the Philippines. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. I wish the injured a speedy recovery. India stands in solidarity with the Philippines at this difficult time.”

At least 69 people have been killed and dozens injured after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck the region late Tuesday. Cebu province, which bore the brunt of the disaster, declared a state of calamity on Wednesday as thousands spent the night outdoors amid repeated aftershocks. Most victims were reported from Bogo city, located near the earthquake’s epicentre.

Authorities are prioritising search and rescue operations, restoring electricity, and distributing relief supplies. Wednesday evening saw another aftershock of magnitude 4.7, affecting Cebu city and neighbouring Leyte, though no casualties have been reported. Cebu’s archbishop has urged residents to avoid churches until structural assessments are complete, following footage showing part of an old Catholic church tower collapsing. The Philippines, located on the geologically unstable “Ring of Fire” and prone to typhoons, has faced multiple natural disasters in recent weeks, including tropical storm Bualoi and typhoon Ragasa, which killed more than a dozen people and displaced hundreds of thousands. The death toll from Tuesday’s earthquake could rise as officials continue verification and rescue efforts.