The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), through the Philippine Embassy in Tehran, continues to monitor the aftermath of a magnitude 5.9 earthquake that struck Iran’s East Azerbaijan province on Friday.

In a bulletin, the department, through Assistant Secretary Eduardo Menez, said that the embassy has contacted the Filipino community in Tabriz City to ascertain their safety and situation.

About 32 Filipino nationals reside in the area, it said.

“So far, there is no report of Filipinos among those affected by the deadly earthquake. The DFA stands ready to provide assistance to any affected kababayan,” it added.

Local reports said the powerful tremor has resulted in the death of five people and hundreds injured, mostly from stampedes. (PNA)