Philippines Earthquake Leaves Dozens Dead and Widespread Destruction in Cebu

AFP

A Powerful Earthquake hits Philippines.

A powerful earthquake has struck central Cebu in the Philippines, leaving at least 69 people dead and more than 150 injured, according to officials.

The 6.9-magnitude quake hit near Bogo City on Cebu Island on Tuesday, with its shallow depth amplifying the devastation. Whole neighbourhoods were flattened, homes and businesses collapsed, and roads were left impassable, complicating rescue and relief operations.

Rescue teams are continuing to search through the rubble for survivors, while authorities have warned that the death toll is likely to rise as more areas become accessible. Hospitals in Cebu City and surrounding towns have been overwhelmed with casualties, with medical staff working around the clock to treat the injured.

President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr has ordered the immediate deployment of military and emergency resources to the disaster zone and has appealed for calm, assuring citizens that the government will provide assistance to affected families.

Power outages and disrupted communications have hampered relief efforts, and thousands of residents have been displaced, seeking shelter in temporary evacuation centres.

International aid organisations have begun to mobilise, with neighbouring countries expressing readiness to support the Philippines in the aftermath of one of the deadliest quakes to hit the region in recent years.

Sources: Reuters, AP, and Washington Post.



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