Former Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro has called on his party and its supporters to coordinate relief efforts and show solidarity with communities devastated by the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia this Monday, leaving at least 111 people dead and widespread destruction across several regions.

Through a statement posted on his digital platforms, the progressive leader called on every member of the coalition and all those who have supported the political movement to coordinate their efforts, activate solidarity and remain attentive to the affected communities. The call was issued while rescue teams continue searching for survivors in multiple regions of the Andean nation.

“To all the members of the Pact, who have accompanied and supported us, I call on them to coordinate efforts, activate solidarity and be attentive to the affected communities,” he expressed.

RELATED: Colombia Declares National Disaster After Earthquake Kills at Least 111

Petro expressed particular concern for towns in the department of Chocó, including San José del Palmar, Río Iró, Nóvita, and Quibdó, as well as municipalities in Tolima such as Chaparral, Coello, Payandé, and Ibagué. He also extended his solidarity to residents of Pereira, Manizales, Armenia, Cali, and Bogotá, where damage and casualties have been reported.

First Response Priority

Petro, who handed over the presidency last Friday to Abelardo de la Espriella, emphasized that the State response must reach all affected territories, prioritizing the most vulnerable populations. The earthquake represents the first major emergency for the new administration, which assumed power only days before the disaster.

“In a national emergency there can be no forgotten territories or second-class citizens. The state must arrive first to those who need it most,” Petro declared. He added that the full capacity of the state should be placed at the service of the people and concluded: “No one can be left behind.”

“The Government must guarantee a response that is immediate, articulated, and humane,” Petro stated, stressing that no community should be overlooked. He insisted that the State must prioritize vulnerable populations, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need.

“In a national emergency, there can be no forgotten territories or second-class citizens. The State must arrive first where people need it most,” he added.

For its part, the Historic Pact coalition announced that its territorial structures will serve as support networks for the affected communities, complementing the official response. Civil society groups have also begun mobilizing volunteers and collecting donations to assist the victims across the affected regions.

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Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds

The earthquake, one of the strongest to hit Colombia in recent decades, caused severe damage across at least five departments. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors trapped under rubble, while authorities assess the scale of destruction to infrastructure, housing, and public services.

Local reports indicate collapsed buildings, disrupted transportation networks, and widespread power outages. Hospitals in affected regions are overwhelmed, and emergency shelters are being set up to accommodate displaced families. International organizations have also expressed readiness to provide assistance, highlighting the gravity of the disaster.

The 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook large parts of Colombia on Monday, leaving at least 111 people dead and severe damage in at least five departments, while relief agencies continue search and rescue efforts, and the authorities make progress in assessing the damage.

International organizations and neighboring governments have expressed solidarity with Colombia and offered humanitarian and technical support. The complete evaluation of the damages is expected in the coming days, as rescue teams reach the most isolated zones of the affected departments.

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