DILI, 09 June 2026 (TATOLI) — The Government of Timor-Leste has expressed strong solidarity with the Government and people of the Philippines following a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck the island of Mindanao.
As of Tuesday, authorities said the death toll from the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck off Maasim in Sarangani province, Mindanao, on Monday morning has risen to 37, with 479 people reported injured and four still missing.
In a statement, Timor-Leste conveyed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery for those injured.
The government said it is closely monitoring developments and acknowledged the efforts of Philippine authorities, emergency responders, and rescue teams working to assist affected communities.
The earthquake caused building collapses, power outages, and tsunami alerts across several coastal areas in the Philippines and parts of the wider region.
Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage while coordinating ongoing response and recovery operations.
Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and Government Spokesperson Agio Pereira said Timor-Leste stands with the Philippines during this difficult time.
“In this moment of pain for the Filipino people, Timor-Leste expresses its solidarity with the Philippines, a long-standing friend and partner within ASEAN. We extend our condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured and to the communities affected by this tragedy,” he said.
The Philippines, a key member of ASEAN, has mobilized emergency response teams as authorities continue monitoring seismic activity and potential aftershocks.
TATOLI
