July 29, 2026
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is closely monitoring the condition of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto in southern Japan.
In an advisory on Wednesday, the DMW said its Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Osaka is coordinating with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka, and the Filipino community to determine the status of Filipinos in the affected areas.
“As of the issuance of this advisory, no injuries or casualties involving Filipino nationals have been reported. The MWO and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in Osaka are coordinating with the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka and the Filipino community to verify the safety and welfare of OFWs in the affected areas,” the advisory reads.
The agency said it continues to verify the safety and welfare of OFWs as information from the affected areas becomes available.
The Japan Times reported that the powerful earthquake jolted the Kumamoto Prefecture in the Kyushu region at 4:27 p.m. on Tuesday.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that as of Wednesday morning, at least 13 people have been confirmed dead in Kumamoto Prefecture, adding that the toll was expected to rise, with scores still missing.
“I offer my deepest condolences to those who have lost their lives,” Takaichi said while assuring that the government will mobilize all available resources to save and rescue as many as possible.
Reports said that many people were trapped after a shopping mall partially collapsed, while a number remain missing at a paper factory.
Meanwhile, the DMW advised Filipinos in Kyushu and nearby areas to stay alert.
“The DMW advises Filipinos in Kyushu and surrounding areas to remain vigilant, prepare for possible aftershocks, and follow official updates from local authorities and the Japan Meteorological Agency,” it said.
Filipinos needing assistance may contact the nearest MWO or the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka through their emergency hotlines: Main Landline: +81 6-6575-7593; Labour Hotline: +81 70-2275-6082; Welfare Assistance Hotline: +81 70-2447-4016; Consulate Hotline: +81 90-4036-7984; or send an email to atn@pcgosaka.org
The DMW/OWWA Hotline 1348 is also available for calls from the Philippines and overseas.
“The DMW will issue additional advisories as verified information becomes available,” the DMW said. (PNA)