By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday confirmed that no Filipinos have been reported injured or killed following the powerful twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela’s northern coast on June 24.
The DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Bogota, which has jurisdiction over Venezuela, is closely monitoring the situation and remains in constant coordination with members of the Filipino community in the South American nation.
“As of this writing, no reports of injuries or casualties were received from Filipino nationals in Venezuela,” the department said.
The embassy has advised Filipinos in Caracas and Barinas to remain indoors, observe safety precautions, and closely follow instructions issued by local authorities.
According to the DFA, about 74 Filipinos currently reside in Venezuela, many of whom are serving as religious missionaries.
Venezuelan authorities reported that at least 32 people were killed and more than 700 others injured after the back-to-back earthquakes caused widespread destruction, particularly in La Guaira state and parts of the capital, Caracas.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck near Morón, about 168 kilometers west of Caracas, followed roughly a minute later by a stronger magnitude 7.5 quake. The twin tremors triggered evacuations and caused extensive structural damage in affected communities.
The DFA said it will continue to monitor developments and provide assistance to Filipinos in Venezuela should the need arise.
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