US, Canada to help PH quake response

Workers carry a deceased person on a stretcher past bags containing the dead bodies of victims outside the provincial hospital in Bogo City on October 1, 2025, after a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake jolted the central Philippines. Agence France-Presse

MANILA, Philippines – The United States and Canadian Embassies in Manila on Wednesday conveyed their readiness to support the Philippines’ response following the deadly magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck northern Cebu on Sept. 30.

In a post on X (Twitter), US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson sent her sympathies to the families of victims killed in the tremor.

“The US Embassy community offers our deepest condolences to those affected by the earthquake in Cebu. Our thoughts and prayers are with all affected,” she said.

READ: Magnitude 6.9 earthquake kills 61, damages heritage churches in Cebu

“We stand ready to support the Philippines government’s response as friends, partners, allies,” she added.

The Canadian Embassy in Manila, on the other hand, said it stands prepared to “coordinate closely with Philippine government agencies, humanitarian partners, and the international community to help meet urgent needs” in the affected areas.

“The Embassy of Canada extends its deepest sympathy to the residents of Cebu and nearby provinces affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake on September 30, 2025. We mourn the loss of lives and we stand with those who are grieving, injured, or displaced,” it said.

READ: Cebu quake death toll rises to 61

In separate tweets, the foreign missions of India, Germany, Czech Republic, Japan, Australia, and the European Union echoed similar messages of solidarity to the Philippines and sent their condolences to the families of the victims.

Over 60 were reported dead while scores were hurt following the deadly earthquake.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is still validating reports on casualties.

Earlier, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro appealed to the private sector and individuals to help provide hot meals and ready-to-eat food for the earthquake victims, especially those in northern Cebu.

Cebu has already been placed under a state of calamity. /dl

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