Rescuers work at the site of a high-rise building under construction that collapsed after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, early Saturday, March 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn)
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is ready to assist Myanmar and Thailand, which were recently devastated by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake, in any way it can, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said on Sunday.
He also extended sympathies to those who lost their loved ones in the disastrous event.
READ: LIVE UPDATES: Magnitude 7.7 Myanmar-Thailand earthquake
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events unfolding in Myanmar and Thailand. On behalf of the House of Representatives, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and those who continue to suffer in the aftermath,” Romualdez 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 (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) family, stands ready to help in any way we can,” he added, noting that the Philippines and the two countries are not only bound geographically but by a “shared spirit of resilience and humanity.”
Romualdez also called on lawmakers to actively engage in crafting legislation to strengthen disaster resilience and preparedness across the region.
“Our shared vulnerabilities require collective action. The recent calamity reaffirms the urgent need for stronger regional collaboration to better manage disasters and minimize loss of life,” he said.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Health in ensuring the safety of Filipinos in Myanmar and Thailand while preparing aid for affected communities.
“Our embassies remain vigilant, ready to provide assistance to our countrymen abroad,” he added.
The Speaker also appealed to the international community to lend support to Myanmar and Thailand, as the scale of destruction in these countries demands collective global efforts.
“I call upon international organizations and partners to urgently mobilize resources for Myanmar and Thailand. It is crucial that aid reaches affected communities swiftly and effectively, helping them rebuild during this time,” Romualdez said.
READ: Myanmar quake death toll rises to 1,644
As of March 30 in Myanmar, the death toll from the earthquake has soared to 1,644, according to a report from the Associated Press. The number of injured stands at 3,408, while the tally of missing persons is at 139.
Meanwhile, in Thailand, the death toll has risen to 10.