Figure : A Powerful Magnitude Earthquake struck Philippines
CEBU, Philippines — A powerful magnitude‑6.9 earthquake struck off the northern coast of Cebu late Tuesday, flattening buildings, cutting power and sending thousands fleeing into the streets. Officials said the quake—recorded at about 10:00 p.m. local time with a shallow focus near 10 km—has left many dead and hundreds injured as search-and-rescue operations continue.
Initial emergency tallies reported about 26 fatalities, but authorities later said that the number of confirmed deaths has climbed sharply as responders reached harder‑hit towns. Officials put the injured at roughly 147. The temblor’s epicenter was near Bogo City and was followed by several strong aftershocks, some measuring magnitude 5 or greater.
Local governments declared a state of calamity in affected municipalities. Video and eyewitness accounts show collapsed structures — including a church and portions of a sports complex — a damaged hospital and widespread damage to homes and public buildings. Power outages and ruptured water lines have complicated relief efforts.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro and national disaster officials appealed for medical personnel, medicines, food, water and heavy equipment to help free people trapped under rubble and care for the wounded. Rescue teams and trauma units were being dispatched to the worst‑hit communities.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology urged coastal residents to stay vigilant for unusual sea movements, though the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported no tsunami threat. The U.S. Geological Survey provided the magnitude and depth readings.
The Philippines sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences frequent seismic activity; officials warned residents to be prepared for additional aftershocks as damage assessments continue. Local authorities said the situation remains fluid and that casualty figures could change as more areas are checked.
Source : NHK World Japan, Aljazeera, BBC
About the Author
