Singapore has expressed solidarity with the Philippines following the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck northern Cebu on September 30, leaving lives lost and widespread damage in its wake.
Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong wrote to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on October 2, extending condolences on behalf of the Government of Singapore.
“I am deeply saddened to learn about the loss of lives and the widespread damage caused by the earthquake that struck northern Cebu. On behalf of the Government of Singapore, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, and my sincere wishes for the speedy recovery of those who were injured,” Wong said in his letter.
He added that Singapore, as a fellow ASEAN member and close friend of the Philippines, “stands ready to provide assistance for ongoing relief and recovery efforts.”
In addition, the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) announced a donation of S$50,000 (US$38,800 or ₱2.2 million) to support emergency relief operations being carried out by the Philippine Red Cross. The funds will be used to meet urgent medical needs, water sanitation and hygiene programs, as well as mental health and psychosocial support for quake survivors.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Singapore said it is closely monitoring the situation and has reached out to e-registered Singaporeans in the affected areas to provide any necessary consular assistance.
So far, no Singaporeans have been reported injured. The MFA has advised its nationals in Cebu to remain vigilant, prepare for possible aftershocks, and heed local authorities’ safety advisories.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., meanwhile, ordered the release of over ₱200 million in assistance to local governments and hospitals in Cebu, including cash aid of ₱10,000 for displaced families and the establishment of a tent city for temporary shelter.
Marcos assured affected residents during his visit to Bogo City that the aid would not be a one-time effort. “We will continue to monitor…[and] coordinate with…the local leadership to make sure that maganda ang takbo ng ating rehabilitation,” he said.
Singapore’s gesture of solidarity adds to the growing international support for the Philippines as it recovers from one of the strongest earthquakes to hit Cebu in recent years.
Officials on Thursday (October 2) said the number of reported deaths from the massive earthquake has climbed to 72.