MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. condoled with the government and people of Colombia for the lives lost and the devastation caused by the powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the South American nation.
The President on Tuesday as a nation along the Pacific Ring of Fire, "Filipinos deeply understand the pain and challenges brought by earthquakes."
"We stand in solidarity with Colombia as they rise through this ordeal, rebuild livelihoods and communities and recover completely," the President posted on Facebook.
"Our thoughts are with all those affected," the President said.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, who is on official visit to South America, said she was "deeply saddened to learn of the devastating earthquake that struck Colombia today."
"My profound sympathies are with the Government and people of Colombia during this difficult time," Lazaro said.
She expressed hope that "those still missing will soon be reunited with their loved ones, and that the affected communities will recover and rebuild swiftly."
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Lazaro will visit Brazil and Chile from Aug. 10 to 13 where she will highlight the Philippines’ longstanding ties as the nation marks the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the two Latin American countries.
Lazaro’s visit aims to "foster closer engagement and mutually beneficial cooperation with Brazil and Chile in the political, economic and socio-cultural spheres," the DFA said over the weekend.
"She is expected to discuss collaboration in various areas, such as trade and investments, defense, energy, agriculture, science, technology, innovation and digital transformation, as well as people-to-people linkages through tourism and sports," it added.
