Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is prepared to dispatch members of the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) to the Philippines if a request for humanitarian aid is made following the earthquake that struck Cebu and surrounding areas. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized Malaysia’s dedication to ASEAN regional solidarity, aiming to mobilize aid to save lives and rebuild communities affected by the disaster.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid expressed hope for the resilience and protection of the Filipino people during this challenging time. He urged for prayers, stating, “Let us pray together that the Filipino people will continue to be blessed with strength, perseverance, and divine protection in facing this great test.” He also wished for successful search and rescue operations and the recovery of the affected communities.

Ahmad Zahid, also the Central Disaster Management Committee chairman, extended his condolences to the Filipino people, acknowledging the hundreds injured and the millions affected by the earthquake. Initial assessments indicated severe infrastructure damage, including partial collapses of both residential and commercial buildings.

Notably, the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan, a historic structure, suffered partial collapse. Power outages, along with significant damage to roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure, were reported. The initial damage estimates stand at USD45.7 billion.

International media reports highlighted that a 6.9-magnitude earthquake off Cebu province resulted in at least 26 fatalities and 147 injuries. The Philippines National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council stated that the death toll is anticipated to rise.