The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed its readiness to assist the Japanese government after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit the western coastline of its country on New Year's Day.
"Recognizing the severity of the situation and the subsequent issuance of major tsunami warnings, the AFP extends its support and sympathy to the Japanese people.," Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in a statement on Monday, Jan. 1.
"In times of crisis, international cooperation becomes paramount, and the AFP expresses its readiness to collaborate with the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) in any way to the Japanese people," it added.
AFP handang makipagtulungan sa Japan Military matapos tumama ang Magnitude 7 lindol sa Japan | RH 52 @ednielparrosa#OperationTulong#SamaSamaTayoPilipino
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Brawner said that the AFP would remain committed to fostering strong bonds of friendship and cooperation with the JSDF, as it is dedicated to safeguarding nations and contributing to global peace and security.
Fifty fatalities were declared due to the earthquake, according to international news agency Reuters as of Wednesday, Jan. 3.
The strong earthquake resulted in a large fire, damaged homes, and portions of the Sea of Japan's coast experienced one-meter waves.
Japan Meteorological Agency reported that tsunami warnings were issued for the coastal prefectures of Niigata, Toyama, and Ishikawa.
Meanwhile, Vladivostok and Nakhodka in Russia's far east were alerted due to the possibility of a tsunami.
