MANILA, Philippines. February 23. 2011. – No Filipinos have been reported hurt in the earthquake that struck Christchurch in New Zealand Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.
In a text message to abs-cbnNEWS.com, the DFA said that the Philippine Embassy in Wellington was able to contact Honorary Consul Zedric Peter Wait in Christchurch.
The Philippine Embassy in Wellington reported to the DFA that it was able to contact the Philippine Honorary COnsul in Christchurch, Zedric Peter Wait.
“Consul Wait stated that there are no known Filipino casualties so far,” the DFA said.
The DFA added that Wait and his staff are coordinating with members of the Filipino community in the area.
As of the latest, power is still down and telephone lines are sporadic.
There are 2000 Filipinos in Christchurch and in the vicinity, said the DFA. The embassy and consulate are monitoring developments in the area.
Reuters reported that the 6.3 magnitude quake struck New Zealand’s second-biggest city of Christchurch on Tuesday. The earthquake toppled buildings and claimed lives. Many people were also reportedly trapped beneath rubbles.