Cardinal Bo Offers Condolences Following Earthquake in Philippines

“It is with deep sorrow that I heard about the multiple earthquakes that hit your nation and took the lives of some 20 people, injuring hundreds and several people reported missing,” Cardinal Bo wrote. “Allow me to express my sincere anguish at this tragedy that has taken the toll on so many human lives in your country just as we are coping with heinous attacks on Christians in Sri Lanka which have left us all numbed of comprehension.

“As I place my humble prayers for all the victims of this natural calamity, I also pray for the victims, survivors, caregivers, and relief agents. I also extend the prayers of Brother Bishops and Faithful of all member countries of the Federation of the Asia Bishops’ Conference for your suffering people.”

Several old churches in Pampanga province have been closed following the strong earthquake that jolted parts of Luzon on Monday, according to CBCP News. The Archdiocese of San Fernando said that at least 24 heritage churches will be off-limits to give way to inspections after the 6.1 magnitude tremor.

Pampanga is home to many historic churches, and most are considered as national treasures for their history and beauty.
So far, the archdiocese reported that only the parish churches in Lubao and Porac had suffered major damages.
Churches in Angeles, Sta. Rita, Guagua, and Betis, meanwhile, were reported to have sustained some cracks.
The tremor left at least 16 people dead and 26 others were listed missing, most of whom were residents of Porac.