DAMAGED houses in the city of Wajima in the Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan show the severity of a series of earthquakes that hit the country on New Year’s Day. Left panel shows residents taking to the relative safety of the streets. | Yomiuri Shimbun/AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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 in a text message.
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.
"Post stands ready to provide assistance to Filipinos, as and when necessary," it said.
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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," he told reporters, describing a "race against time" to rescue victims.
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. WITH AFP
