BY JOEL CALAMBA ESCOL, Managing Editor
MANILA, Philippines – The massive 7.8 magnitude tremor that hit Syria and Turkey on February 6 had left two Filipinos dead, the Department of Foreign Affairs reported Friday.
But the DFA could not yet ascertain the identities of the two Filipinos while search and rescue operations are ongoing.
“It is with regret that we are confirming the death of two Filipinos. One previously reported missing by the media has fortunately been found alive,” the Philippine Embassy office based in Ankara said.
Based on daily updates of the quake, the death toll has already reached 21,000 but rescue efforts were still ongoing at press time.
It was learned that there were 34 Filipino evacuees and their families are now relocated in a safer place in Ankara, the capital of Turkey.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) issued an advisory asking every good samaritan to share their blessings to the affected Filipino families in Ankara.
“Any form of humanitarian assistance extended to the OFW earthquake victims, and their families shall be deeply appreciated,” the DMW advisory said.
