The Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said that no Filipino was hurt in the 7.5 magnitude quake that struck Central Japan on New Year's Day.

"No reports of injuries or death involving Filipinos in the Yamagata Prefecture were received following the powerful earthquake which struck central Japan," the DFA told reporters.

Yamagata Prefecture, located in the Tohoku region of northern Japan, is home to an estimated 881 Filipinos.

The DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo is in touch with members of the Filipino community in Yamagata Prefecture and is monitoring the conditions of Filipinos in the area.

Authorities in Japan said at least 48 people died from the powerful earthquake that left 45,000 households without power and water.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the quake caused "extensive" damage with numerous casualties.

"Very extensive damage has been confirmed, including numerous casualties, building collapses, and fires."

Japan has been hit since Monday by 155 earthquakes including a 7.6-magnitude jolt and another over 6.0 magnitude, the Japan Meteorological Office said.

Most of the quakes had a magnitude greater than 3.0, and while the strength has gradually moderated, six strong jolts were still felt early Tuesday, the JMA added.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the Philippines has offered Japan assistance " in any way that we can."

"In the face of shared climate challenges within the Pacific Ring of Fire, we stand united with Japan and stay ready to provide support from the Philippines," the President said.

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration chief Arnell Ignacio said in a Facebook video post late Monday that, "So far, we have not received any reports of any accidents involving our fellow countrymen."

"We have 1,287 Filipinos in that area, and you can rest assured that OWWA will prioritize the safety of our fellow Filipinos in Japan," he added. "We are closely monitoring their situation there."

More than 100 Filipinos had been evacuated, local authorities said.

 The Department of Migrant Workers has activated a Helpline for OFWs and their families in Japan (1348 or +632 1348, +81 7024474016) if they need assistance.                         

WITH AFP