THE House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, on Sunday expressed its deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of Myanmar and Thailand following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that claimed numerous lives and caused extensive destruction.
Speaker Romualdez extended condolences to both countries, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation during disasters of such magnitude.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events unfolding in Myanmar and Thailand. On behalf of the House of Representatives, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and those who continue to suffer in the aftermath,” Speaker Romualdez said. “We feel the weight of your sorrow, and across the seas, your suffering echoes in the hearts of every Filipino.”
“In this moment of great hardship, we extend not only our deepest sympathies, but also our steadfast support. The Philippines, as a brother in the ASEAN family, stands ready to help in any way we can… We are bound not just by geography, but by a shared spirit of resilience and humanity. And in that spirit, we will stand beside you—as neighbors, as friends, as one community. May strength and hope find their way into your hearts. And may we all continue to lift Myanmar and Thailand in our prayers,” Speaker Romualdez said.
The powerful earthquake struck Myanmar’s Mandalay region on March 28, killing over 1,600 people, injuring thousands more, and causing massive damage to infrastructure.
In neighboring Thailand, Bangkok suffered significant impacts, resulting in at least 10 deaths and widespread structural damage.
Speaker Romualdez assured both countries and Filipinos affected that the Marcos administration and the House of Representatives stand ready to offer immediate assistance, underscoring the Philippines’ commitment to aiding neighboring nations in crisis.
He further urged lawmakers to proactively engage in crafting legislation to strengthen disaster resilience and preparedness across the region, highlighting that cooperation in times of disaster is critical.
“Our shared vulnerabilities require collective action. The recent calamity reaffirms the urgent need for stronger regional collaboration to better manage disasters and minimize loss of life,” he added.
Speaker Romualdez also acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Health, which swiftly mobilized to ensure the safety of Filipinos in Myanmar and Thailand while preparing aid for affected communities.
“Our embassies remain vigilant, ready to provide assistance to our countrymen abroad,” Speaker Romualdez explained.
The Speaker appealed to the international community to lend substantial support to Myanmar and Thailand, noting that the scale of destruction demands collective global efforts.
“I call upon international organizations and partners to urgently mobilize resources for Myanmar and Thailand. It is crucial that aid reaches affected communities swiftly and effectively, helping them rebuild during this time,” Speaker Romualdez emphasized.
