DFA: No report of Filipino casualties so far in New Zealand quake

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday said it has not received report of any Filipino casualty in the powerful 7.8 magnitude quake that struck New Zealand.

In a text message to INQUIRER.net, DFA assistant secretary Charles Jose said the Philippine Embassy in Wellington continues to monitor the situation of Filipinos closely.

At least 2 people were confirmed dead following the strong quake that hit New Zealand’s South Island on Sunday evening (Manila time), some 93 kilometers north close to the city of Christchurch. It was also strongly felt in the capital Wellington.

READ: 2 die as powerful quake hits New Zealand, causing tsunami

The quake was followed by a number of aftershocks and prompted New Zealand’s Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management to issue a tsunami warning. RAM

READ: New Zealand issues tsunami warning after powerful quake