The death toll from the powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck the central Philippines has risen to 69, according to local disaster officials cited by Reuters. The quake hit off the coast of Cebu province late Tuesday evening, causing widespread damage, power outages, and panic among residents.
The shallow earthquake struck just before 10 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located near Bogo city, in the northern part of Cebu province. Hospitals in the area were quickly overwhelmed as more than 150 people were injured, while rescue teams raced against time to reach trapped residents and provide medical assistance.
At least 22 buildings collapsed or sustained major damage, while electricity and water supplies were disrupted in several parts of Cebu. Despite the destruction, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the country’s second busiest, has remained operational.
Search and rescue operations continue amid challenging conditions, with aftershocks further complicating efforts. Civil Defense official Raffy Alejandro warned that the death toll could still rise as reports from remote areas are verified.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured survivors of immediate government support, deploying cabinet secretaries to coordinate relief efforts on the ground. He also extended his condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing the government’s commitment to helping communities rebuild.
Cebu, one of the Philippines’ most visited tourist destinations, is home to 3.4 million people and attracts visitors for its beaches, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The recent earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability, as it sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area prone to frequent seismic activity.
