WEB DESK: A powerful 6.9-magnitude quake struck the central Philippines on Tuesday night, resulting in at least 69 fatalities and over 150 injuries, according to officials. Heavy rainfall has further complicated rescue operations.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology confirmed that the earthquake hit the Cebu province, which has a population of approximately 3.2 million residents, shortly before 10 p.m. local time. The tremor was followed by multiple smaller aftershocks that added to the chaos.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the country’s main disaster response body, stated that the death toll currently stands at 69, with more than 150 individuals reported injured. The quake caused significant damage to infrastructure, damaging at least 22 structures, including three bridges and a road that are currently impassable.
Diego A. Mariano, spokesperson for the Philippines’ Civil Defense Communications and Advocacy Division, mentioned that efforts are underway to restore disrupted communication lines. He added that the impact was particularly severe in densely populated urban areas, hampering rescue and relief activities.
