Update on the Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake in Hokkaido

06 September 2018 – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), through the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo, is assisting a 26-member tour group from the Philippines that was initially reported trapped at their hotel in Sapporo following this morning’s magnitude 6.7 earthquake there.

Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel has informed Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano that the members of the group are all safe and accounted for. Ambassador Laurel said the Embassy has reached out to the members of the group and is making arrangements to ensure they would have food, water, and accommodations until it is safe for them to leave Sapporo.

The Embassy continues to monitor the condition of the 1,800 members of the Filipino Community in Sapporo and other areas in Hokkaido that were affected by the earthquake even as authorities confirmed there were no Filipinos among the injured. Ambassador Laurel said electricity has been restored in Sapporo and convenience stores and key establishments have reopened.

Ambassador Laurel said the Embassy stands ready to provide assistance to affected Filipinos if needed. Filipinos affected by the earthquake who may require assistance may contact the Embassy at: +8180 4928 7979. Next of kin in the Philippines may contact the Office of Migrant Workers Affairs at (+632) 834-4996 and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. during office hours and DFA Action Center +632 834-3333 or 834-4997 after office hours. END