One Filipino confirmed dead in Myanmar earthquake

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has confirmed that one of the four Filipinos reported missing after the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has been found dead. The earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, causing widespread destruction and a rising death toll.

Identification and Ongoing Search Efforts

The deceased Filipino was among the four individuals unaccounted for in the aftermath of the quake. The DFA has not yet released the identity of the victim, pending notification of next of kin. Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining three missing Filipinos, which include a married couple who were residing in a building that collapsed during the earthquake. 

Deployment of Philippine Search and Rescue Teams

In response to the crisis, the Philippine government dispatched a search and rescue team to Myanmar. The team, comprising personnel from various agencies, arrived in Mandalay to assist in locating and aiding affected Filipinos. Their mission includes coordinating with local authorities and international teams to expedite search operations. ​

Casualty Figures and Regional Impact

As of the latest reports, the earthquake has resulted in over 2,000 fatalities, with thousands more injured and hundreds still missing. The tremor also affected neighboring Thailand, where additional casualties and structural damages were reported. ​

Government's Commitment and Assistance

The Philippine government has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Filipinos in Myanmar. The DFA continues to coordinate with Myanmar authorities and international organizations to monitor the situation and provide necessary assistance. Financial aid amounting to $100,000 (approximately P5.7 million) has been allocated to support affected Filipinos. ​

Community Vigilance and Support

The Filipino community in Myanmar has been urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories issued by local authorities. The Philippine Embassy in Yangon remains accessible for assistance and information. Families in the Philippines seeking information about their relatives in Myanmar are encouraged to contact the DFA for updates.​

The confirmation of a Filipino fatality underscores the extensive impact of the Myanmar earthquake. The Philippine government, through its agencies and deployed teams, continues to work diligently to locate the remaining missing individuals and provide support to affected families. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are committed to delivering timely updates as new information becomes available.

Sources:

• https://globalnation.inquirer.net/272264/1-of-four-filipinos-missing-in-earthquake-hit-myanmar-found-dead-dfa 
• https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2025/04/09/665106/missing-filipino-in-myanmar-confirmed-dead-dfa/ 
• https://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/1-ofw-dead-in-myanmar-earthquake-3-still-missing 
• https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/04/09/2434736/1-filipino-confirmed-dead-myanmar-earthquake