DFA: PHL Embassy team on the way to New Zealand quake site

The Philippine Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand said a team is on the way to Christchurch to look after the welfare of the Filipinos affected by the 6.3-magnitude earthquake that struck the city on Tuesday at 12:51 p.m. (New Zealand time). A press statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday, citing a report from the Philippine Embassy, said a certain Jay Payot sustained injuries in his arms. The DFA Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs (DFA-OUMWA) also received calls that five Filipino students were reportedly trapped in the CTV Building, which collapsed during the quake. The DFA said the report is still being verified as of posting time. The DFA-OUMWA has also set up a hotline for families of Filipinos based in Christchurch. The hotline numbers are 834-4448 and 834-4596. The DFA said there are around 2,000 Filipinos in Christchurch. While the earthquake was lesser in intensity compared to the 7.1-magnitude quake that occurred in New Zealand in September last year, the damage was more extensive and there were more injuries and fatalities, the DFA said. New Zealand declared a state of calamity after the quake, which reportedly left nearly 400 people dead or missing. Prime Minister John Key scheduled an emergency Cabinet meeting on Tuesday and has flown to Christchurch to gain first-hand knowledge of the situation. Philippine Charge d’Affaires Giovanni Palec said rescue efforts are being undertaken. Philippine Honorary Consul to Christchurch Zedric Peter Wait is leading the rescue efforts on behalf of the Filipino community, the DFA said. The DFA also said police, rescue and civil defense teams are out and are providing assistance, especially to those who are shocked. According to Wait, electricity has already been restored in some areas but telephone lines are still down. – VVP, GMA News