Statement Regarding the Eruption of an Underwater Volcano affecting Tonga, Samoa and Fiji

16 January 2022 - The Philippine Embassy in Wellington is closely following developments in Tonga, Samoa and Fiji after the eruption of an underwater volcano yesterday, triggering tsunamis and strong wave alerts across the Pacific.

The Embassy reported residents moving to higher ground and disruptions to communication systems as tsunami waves reached Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji. Tsunami advisories were also issued for the coastal areas of New Zealand, Japan, and the US western states.

Coordination efforts with local authorities and community leaders are ongoing to ascertain the situation on the ground and the condition of the Filipinos in Tonga (87), Samoa (300), and Fiji (400).