China ‘ready to assist’ affected Pinoys in quake-hit areas

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 27) — The Chinese government said it is ready to help Filipinos affected in areas hit by the magnitude 7 earthquake on Wednesday, July 27.

Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian also expressed solidarity and concern for the safety of Filipinos following the strong quake.

“My prayer goes to all Filipinos for their safety. I hope there wouldn’t be any casualty and damages. If there’s anything that we can be of help to the Filipino people we will be ready,” the Chinese envoy said during the launch of a photo exhibit in Pasay showcasing Philippine-China relations.

China said it is now assessing the impact of the quake and how Beijing can extend possible assistance.

“We need to assess what kind of damage [there is]. We hope there will be no casualties, but in case there is, we will do our best to help,” Huang added.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) initially reported the earthquake at magnitude 7.3 but later downgraded it to 7.

In its bulletin, Phivolcs said the quake struck Lagangilang, Abra at 8:43 am on Wednesday, at a depth of 25 kilometers. The quake was of tectonic origin and is considered a major quake.