MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the Filipino workers in Taiwan that the Philippine government is ready to assist and support them during these difficult times following the strong earthquake that hit the island on Wednesday.

“We stand ready to assist and support our fellow Filipinos in Taiwan in any way possible during this difficult period,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said in a statement shortly after a strong earthquake jolted Taiwan.

President Marcos added the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is diligently ensuring the safety of the 159,480 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) current residing in Taiwan.

“Our hearts are with the people of Taiwan as they endure the aftermath of today’s powerful earthquake,” the chief executive said.

Initial reports said four people were killed and 57 others injured while several buildings collapsed when a 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit south of Hualien, Taiwan on Wednesday. (PND)