Philippines: At least 69 people have died and more than 150 others injured following a 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck the central Visayas region, hitting Cebu province late Tuesday night.
The quake caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged infrastructure, and power outages, making it one of the deadliest disasters in the country this year.
Earthquake Details
The earthquake struck at a depth of approximately 10 km (6.2 miles), with multiple aftershocks reported.
The strongest aftershock also registered a magnitude of 6.9. Authorities confirmed that there was no tsunami threat following the quake.
The epicenter was located 19 km northeast of Bogo, a coastal city of about 90,000 residents, where at least 14 fatalities were reported.
The tremor was caused by movements along a local fault at a depth of 5 km (3 miles).
Scenes of Destruction
The quake left buildings destroyed, including commercial establishments, and caused significant damage to roads and bridges.
Hospitals in Bogo and surrounding areas are overwhelmed with injured residents.
Government Response
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr assured citizens of swift relief and assistance, stating that cabinet secretaries were on the ground coordinating rescue and relief operations.
The Indian Embassy in the Philippines extended condolences to the families of the victims. In a statement on X, the embassy said:
“The Embassy of India extends its deepest condolences to the people affected by the earthquake in the Cebu province and to the government and people of the Philippines.”
Government agencies are mobilized to search for survivors, restore power and water supplies, and provide medical assistance to the injured.