A powerful 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck Bogo City, Cebu, on Tuesday evening, causing significant structural damage to the centuries-old Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan. The tremor, which occurred at 9:59 p.m., led to a partial collapse of the church, prompting authorities to urge residents and tourists to avoid the area while damage assessments and safety inspections are underway.
Emergency and disaster response teams have been dispatched to secure the site and prevent injuries. Initial reports describe parts of the building at risk of further collapse. Authorities are working to determine the extent of the damage and ensure public safety. The local government has also issued a statement urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential aftershocks
The Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima is a historic and religious landmark in the region, built in 1886 during the Spanish colonization era. Despite the destruction, local parish officials confirmed that the Blessed Sacrament and the revered retablo image of Sta. Rosa de Lima remained unscathed, which many parishioners described as a “miracle amid tragedy”.
The Archdiocese of Cebu issued an appeal to Catholics nationwide to pray for the affected communities. Church leaders humbly implored everyone to offer support and prayers for those impacted by the earthquake. Governor Pamela Buricuatro urged constituents to stay vigilant, and the provincial government has deployed disaster and relief groups to assist affected residents.
Authorities have placed Daanbantayan under a state of calamity as response teams assess the full extent of the destruction. Residents in nearby areas, including Medellin, Bogo City, and San Remigio, also reported significant structural damages. Relief efforts are underway to provide assistance to displaced families and conduct inspections of damaged infrastructure.
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