Metro Manila, Philippines – Governments and diplomatic missions around the world have expressed sympathy and solidarity with the Philippines following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on Monday, June 8, killing dozens of people, injuring hundreds and causing extensive damage across several provinces in the southern part of the country.
The messages of support came as authorities continued search, rescue and relief operations in affected communities, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a whole-of-government response to the disaster.
The United States said it is prepared to support Philippine-led relief efforts.
“The U.S. Embassy extends its deepest sympathies to all those affected by the earthquake in Mindanao on June 8, 2026. We continue to monitor the situation closely in coordination with Philippine authorities and stand ready to support Philippine-led response efforts,” the U.S. Embassy in Manila said in a statement.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also conveyed her condolences to victims and their families.
“I am deeply saddened by reports that the major earthquake that struck off Mindanao in the southern Philippines today has caused damage, including the collapse of buildings,” Takaichi said.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those who lost their lives and to their bereaved families, and my sincere sympathies to all those affected.”
The Japanese leader said Tokyo was prepared to assist Manila if requested.
“Japan stands ready to provide all possible assistance that the Philippines may need, based on local needs,” she added.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon likewise offered support, citing his country’s own experience with major earthquakes.
“As a country that suffers its fair share of earthquakes, our thoughts are with the people of the Philippines after today’s devastating quake in Mindanao,” Luxon said.
“New Zealand stands ready to assist, should that be helpful.”
The Chinese Embassy in Manila was among the first foreign missions to issue a statement following the earthquake.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and damage caused by the earthquake in Mindanao. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Philippine people, mourn those who lost their lives, and express our sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and all those affected by the disaster,” the Chinese embassy said.
Several European countries also expressed support for the Philippines.
The German Embassy in Manila said it was deeply saddened by the destruction caused by the earthquake.
“The German Embassy Manila is deeply saddened by the earthquake that struck the regions of Mindanao on 8 June,” the embassy said.
“We extend our heartfelt thoughts and sympathies to the victims, their loved ones, and all communities affected. As recovery efforts continue, Germany stands in solidarity with the people of the Philippines during this difficult time.”
France similarly extended its condolences to the victims and pledged solidarity with affected communities.
“France is deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the damage caused by the earthquake that struck Mindanao this morning,” the French embassy said.
“France extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and expresses its full solidarity with the Filipino people and the authorities responding to this disaster.”
Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown also offered condolences.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and damage caused by the earthquake in Mindanao,” Innes-Brown said.
“Our thoughts go out to those affected by today’s earthquakes off Mindanao. Our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones. Wishing the injured and communities affected a speedy recovery.”
The Embassy of Israel in Manila said it stands with the Philippines following the disaster.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the residents of Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and neighboring communities affected by this tragedy,” the embassy said.
“We mourn the loss of lives and stand in solidarity with all those who are grieving, injured, displaced, or facing the aftermath of the disaster.”
Israel also recognized the efforts of emergency responders and volunteers assisting affected communities.
“Our thoughts are with the affected families, communities, and the dedicated first responders and volunteers working tirelessly to provide assistance and support,” the embassy added.
The embassies of Ukraine and Russia likewise issued separate statements expressing condolences to the victims.
“The Embassy of Ukraine expresses its sincere condolences in connection with the earthquake of 8 June in the Mindanao region,” the Ukrainian embassy said.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of the victims, reaffirm our solidarity with the people of the Philippines, and highly appreciate the efforts of the local authorities and emergency services in responding to the situation.”
Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy said it shares the grief of the Filipino people.
“The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of the Philippines expresses its deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of the earthquake in Mindanao,” it said.
“We share the grief of the Philippine people, mourn the loss of lives and extend our sincere sympathy to the families of the victims, as well as to all those who have suffered as a result of this natural disaster.”
The expressions of support came as authorities continued assessing the full extent of the damage caused by the earthquake, one of the strongest to hit the country in recent years.
Marcos earlier directed national agencies to mobilize all available resources, provide immediate assistance to affected communities and ensure the safety of residents in areas impacted by the disaster.
