Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Speaker Frank Blas Jr., on behalf of Guam, offered condolences to the Philippines after a devastating 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu and surrounding areas late Tuesday night, killing at least 56, injuring at least 200, and severely damaging buildings.

“Guam stands ready to help in any way possible,” the governor said on Wednesday.

The fatal quake hit around 10 p.m. Tuesday, and its epicenter was near the coastal city of Bogo in the northern part of Cebu province.

Half of the reported deaths and most of those injured were in Bogo City, according to reports from Rappler.

“As relief efforts continue, we will share information with the public on concrete ways to help,” the governor said. “In times of crisis, our shared humanity must always guide us to compassion and action.”

Cebu is one of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations. Just recently, Philippine Airlines announced its first direct Guam-Cebu flights starting Dec. 16.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of life and destruction caused by this powerful earthquake,” the governor said in a statement. “Though Guam faces its own challenges, we cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering of others—especially our brothers and sisters in the Philippines, with whom we share such deep ties of family, history, and friendship.”

The governor sent a formal letter of sympathy to the Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines in Guam, offering prayers for the victims, their families, and all affected communities.

Blas said in this moment of profound grief and uncertainty, Guam reaffirms its bond of friendship and shared resilience with its Filipino brothers and sisters.

“In times like these, no distance can dim our empathy. We stand with you in prayer, in grief, and in hope for swift healing,” the speaker added.

Haidee Eugenio Gilbert is managing editor for the Pacific Daily News. You can reach her at hgilbert@guampdn.com.