A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Bogo City in Cebu, Philippines, late Tuesday evening, causing widespread destruction and panic among residents. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) confirmed that the epicenter of the quake was located 17 kilometers northeast of Bogo City. The intense shaking damaged buildings, including the Bogo City Hall, and injured several people due to falling debris.
Phivolcs initially issued a tsunami warning, advising people to stay away from coastlines in Cebu and nearby provinces due to possible waves of up to 1 meter. However, the warning was later lifted with no unusual waves monitored. The tsunami alert caused widespread panic, with residents rushing to higher ground and emergency services scrambled to respond.
The earthquake caused significant damage to buildings, roads, and public infrastructure in Bogo City and nearby towns. At least 19 people were killed, with 13 fatalities reported in Bogo City, including four minors, and five deaths in San Remigio town. Several business establishments sustained damage, and asphalt and concrete roads had deep cracks. Emergency medical teams were deployed to treat residents who were pinned and injured.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro confirmed that medical teams have been deployed to affected areas and appealed for additional supplies, including food and trauma care. The Office of the President pledged immediate aid, while the Department of Health mobilized a trauma team. The local government of San Remigio declared a state of calamity due to widespread destruction.
Phivolcs reported 119 aftershocks as of 5:30 am on Wednesday, with 16 of these tremors measuring above magnitude 3.5. Authorities warned that aftershocks could continue for days, complicating recovery efforts and forcing many residents to seek temporary shelter. The province urged more medical volunteers to respond to residents in need, and relief efforts are ongoing to provide assistance to affected communities ¹ ²
###
