PNoy extends 'profound condolences' to Japan

President Benigno Aquino III on Friday extended his and the Philippines' “most profound condolences" to the people of Japan after it was devastated by a magnitude-8.9 earthquake followed by a massive tsunami on Friday. “It is with great sadness that we learned of the massive earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan a few hours ago, causing a great deal of loss and damages," the President said in a one-page letter sent to Japan Prime Minister Naoto Kan. “The government of the Republic of the Philippines and the entire Filipino nation join me in expressing both our most profound condolences and sympathies, as well as our solidarity with Your Excellency and the people of Japan as you strive to cope with this tragedy while devastation, it pains us, are still unfolding," Aquino added. He said the Philippines and its people are ready to provide assistance to the people of Japan in anyway it can. “During this difficult time, I assure Your Excellency that the Philippine government stands ready to extend any support and assistance within its capability, as Japan strives to cope with the aftermath of this tragic event," he said. The President also expressed concern on the Filipinos residing in Japan. “Our extensive and long standing ties of friendship means that Japan is also home to a vast number of Filipinos, whose welfare also represents a paramount concern," he said. Based on government statistics, there are a total of 305,972 Filipinos in Japan. Of the number, 84,414 are in western and southern regions and 224,558 Filipino nationals in central and northern regions. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday said they are still consolidating information on the condition of over 300,000 Filipinos in Japan, following the earthquake that hit its northeast region. There have been no reports of Filipino casualties as of posting time. (See: DFA monitoring 300,000 Pinoys in Japan after massive quake)—Amita O. Legaspi/JV, GMA News