Earthquake in Central Philippines Leaves 69 Dead
The death toll from the recent 6.9 magnitude earthquake that hit central Philippines has now reached 69. Rescue efforts are ongoing as authorities search for survivors following one of the strongest earthquakes in recent years.
This violent shaking struck off the coast of Cebu on Tuesday, resulting in power outages and damage to buildings. The number of missing individuals has not been confirmed yet.
According to Jane Aberpo from the Regional Civil Defense Agency, the latest reports indicate 69 deaths as of late Wednesday morning, a shift from earlier estimates which had put the toll at around 60, alongside about 150 injuries.
The hospital in Bogo, located near the earthquake’s epicenter, is reportedly “overwhelmed,” as stated by civil defense official Raffy Alejandro during a press briefing.
The Philippine Coast Guard dispatched a vessel packed with doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals towards Bogo. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured that a district secretary would oversee the rapid response to aid survivors.
“We’re looking into the damages and evaluating the immediate needs,” Marcos mentioned to reporters. This followed his recent distribution of aid on Masbate island, which is recovering from the impacts of Super Typhoon Ragatha.
San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez noted that the area has recorded 11 fatalities, expressing concerns that the numbers may rise. He emphasized the need to identify victims and ascertain who requires assistance, as many homes have been compromised.
Earthquake Details
The earthquake’s depth was recorded at approximately 6.2 miles, accompanied by several strong aftershocks, the largest measuring six on the Richter scale.
Fortunately, no tsunami threat was issued following the quake.
Located in the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” the Philippines frequently experiences volcanic activity and earthquakes. Earlier in January, two significant tremors occurred without any fatalities reported.
In 2023, an offshore earthquake of 6.7 magnitude resulted in eight deaths.
Deputy Mayor Alfie Reigns from San Remigio mentioned that some victims were playing basketball in sports complexes that partially collapsed during the quake.
Heavy machinery is being utilized to aid in search and rescue operations, particularly to find food and water for evacuees.
“With the rain and power outages, we genuinely need assistance, especially in the northern areas where the water supply has been disrupted,” Raines added.
Footage from local media shows terrified residents fleeing from their homes as buildings shook and collapsed, affecting even century-old churches.
Cebu, a popular tourist destination, is home to about 3.4 million residents. The full extent of the damage in other regions remains unclear.
Despite the devastation, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the second busiest in the country, continues to operate.
The Philippine Earthquake Authority reported nearly 800 aftershocks, warning that more tremors could occur in the coming days, though their intensity is expected to lessen.
Reports of tremors also reached areas as far south as Zamboanga del Norte, approximately 205 miles away.
In Pilar, resident Arkel Koraza recounted how most of his family was asleep when the earthquake struck. “I woke them up, and we all hurried out into the street,” he shared.
