Japan OFW calls for quake support

A Filipino worker in Japan has appealed for prayers and assistance for those affected by the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture, saying residents continue to grapple with fear as aftershocks persist.

Speaking on DAILY TRIBUNE’s Usapang OFW, Nelisa Rayon, a Filipino farmer who has lived in Kumamoto for eight years, described the devastation caused by the quake, which damaged homes and disrupted essential services.

“Our cabinet was destroyed, the ceiling cracked, the roads split open, and part of our apartment wall collapsed,” Rayon said. “It was very traumatic.”

Rayon said their area remains without water and gas, making it impossible to cook, although electricity has been restored.

She added that local Japanese authorities have been distributing water and bread through community centers, while her employer has also extended assistance.

Despite the hardship, Rayon said many others were in even greater need.

“We’re okay with bread for now because there are people who need help even more,” she said, adding that frequent aftershocks have left many residents unable to sleep safely.

“I stayed with my Filipino neighbor because we felt safer there. Even now, the aftershocks continue,” she said.

Rayon appealed to Philippine authorities and the public to remember Filipinos and Japanese residents affected by the disaster.

“To all our government officials in the Philippines, I hope you can help those affected by the earthquake here in Kumamoto. Please also pray that the aftershocks will stop,” she said.