6.9 earthquake shakes the Philippines: at least 20 dead and dozens injured

A 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines, leaving at least 20 dead and 37 injured, causing damage to buildings, roads and other infrastructure. The epicenter was located about 11 miles northeast of Bogo City, Cebu Province, and struck around 10 p.m. local time.

Cebu City spokesperson Ainjeliz de la Torre-Orong confirmed the death toll in an email to the media.

She noted that the earthquake caused significant material damage in several areas of the city.

According to the report, four buildings completely collapsed, including residential and commercial structures. In addition, three government buildings suffered considerable damage, while six bridges and a road were declared impassable, further complicating rescue efforts and traffic in the region. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the disaster.

San Remigio Deputy Mayor Alfie Reynes confirmed the fatalities include three coast guard members, a firefighter, and a child.

In the town, considerable damage was reported to several structures, including stone and concrete buildings, with reports of deep cracks in roads and collapsed walls at fire stations and homes.

Structural Damage and Fear Among the Population

Most residents of Bogota ran out of their homes after feeling the powerful tremor. Rey Canete, a local firefighter, said a wall at the fire station collapsed, injuring several firefighters.

The injured were quickly treated, and authorities sent rescue units to assist with the situation.

Videos posted on social media showed fires burning at commercial establishments.

One of the worst-hit areas was a Catholic church in Daanbantayan, near Bogo. The Philippine Red Cross confirmed that schools and hospitals in the region are assessing the damage.while the situation remains tense due to aftershocks.

Tsunami warning canceled

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center ruled out the possibility of a tsunami, although the Philippines is still experiencing aftershocks. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) recorded several aftershocks, and local authorities have urged calm while the damage is assessed.

Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro confirmed that the local government is already coordinating relief and support efforts for the affected areas, noting that classes and work activities have been suspended in the most affected areas.

Philippines and the Ring of Fire

Tuesday's earthquake occurred in an area prone to seismic activity, as the Philippines is part of the "Pacific Ring of Fire," an area of ????high seismic and volcanic activity. These types of earthquakes are common in the region, which has also experienced major tremors in previous years, such as the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in 2022 that left at least five dead in northern Luzon.

Authorities continue to work to fully assess the damage and coordinate rescue efforts in the areas hardest hit by the 6.9 magnitude quake.

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