Cebu: Senators on Wednesday expressed sympathy to families and communities affected by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu Tuesday night, while urging stronger disaster response and infrastructure safety measures. Senator Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero emphasized the tragedy as a reminder of the country’s vulnerability due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Escudero highlighted the importance of ensuring the government’s immediate response, from search and rescue operations to providing aid for those who lost their homes and loved ones. He reiterated his call for strict inspections of buildings and infrastructure nationwide to prevent similar tragedies.

Senator Lito Lapid extended condolences not only to the earthquake victims but also to families affected by Typhoon Opong in the Bicol and Southern Tagalog regions. Lapid stated his intention to coordinate with local governments to assess urgent needs in the affected areas. He urged Filipinos to offer prayers for those impacted by the consecutive natural disasters.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian expressed particular concern for the safety of children and teachers, urging the Department of Education and local government units to suspend the use of unsafe school facilities. He called for immediate inspections and the provision of psychosocial support to ensure the well-being and continued learning of students and educators.

Senator Joel Villanueva also expressed solidarity with affected families and commended responders on the ground for their efforts. He acknowledged the critical role of healthcare workers and social welfare officers in hospitals and evacuation centers. Villanueva stressed the necessity of ongoing safety inspections of critical infrastructure to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of emergency services.

Authorities earlier confirmed dozens of fatalities from the earthquake, which coincided with ongoing relief operations in areas also affected by Typhoon Opong.