Singapore PM, Red Cross pledge aid, solidarity with PH

Singapore has extended both financial support and condolences to the Philippines following the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck northern Cebu late Tuesday night, killing at least 72 people and injuring more than 300.

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS and RAYMUND ANTONIO

Singapore Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong wrote to President Marcos on Thursday to extend condolences and express readiness to help in relief operations.

"I am deeply saddened to learn about the loss of lives and the widespread damage caused by the earthquake that struck northern Cebu on 30 September 2025," Wong said in his Oct. 2 letter.

"On behalf of the Government of Singapore, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, and my sincere wishes for the speedy recovery of those who were injured," he added.

Wong assured Marcos that Singapore "stands ready to provide assistance for ongoing relief and recovery efforts" and reiterated solidarity as a close ASEAN partner and friend of the Philippines.

Singapore Red Cross

The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) said it will contribute SG$50,000 (about P2.3 million) to support relief and recovery efforts in the quake-hit province, describing the situation on the ground as "dire" for families who lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods.

Benjamin William, SRC secretarygeneral and CEO, said the humanitarian group is also in talks with partners to deploy prepositioned water filters to address the shortage of clean water in hospitals and evacuation centers in northern Cebu.