No Filipinos So Far Among Italian Quake Casualties: DFA

By: InterAksyon.com | Carla Lim, News5

MANILA – No Filipino casualties have so far been reported in the magnitude 6.2 earthquake that struck central Italy early Wednesday, killing thus far 38 people.

The Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila gave this assurance, even as Philippine consular and labor officials fanned out to reach Filipino communities who may have been located in the three badly-hit area of Umbria, Lazio and Marche.

There are an estimated 170,000 Filipinos who live and work in Italy, said DFA spokesman Assistant Secretary Charles Jose.

An Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s welfare officer, Hector Cruz,  told InterAksyon.com they were continuously tracking the OFWs in order to make sure all are safe.

The Philippine Embassy in Rome issued an urgent notice to all Filipinos in Italy on Wednesday. The flyer, originally written in Filipino, said: “Because of the strong earthquake that struck central Italy, all Filipino citizens, especially those living in the provinces of Umbria, Lazio and Marche, are reminded to be alert and careful to avoid harm caused by aftershocks of the earthquake.

“Everyone is advised to listen to reports and cautionary tips by the local and national authorities. Heed the reminders of authorities and follow their guidelines.

“The Department for Civil Protection of Italy is actively helping the victims. To reach the agency, please call: 800840840 or 803555 (Lazio).

“The emergency hotline at the Philippine Embassy is: 3286907613.”

(Source: InterAksyon.com)