What is the Latest Death Toll from the Strong Earthquake in the Philippines?
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Synopsis
The recent 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Cebu, Philippines, has resulted in a rising death toll of 69. As rescue operations continue, the impact on local communities is profound. Learn how the government is responding to this devastating situation.
Key Takeaways
- Death toll from the earthquake has reached 69.
- Rescue efforts are still ongoing.
- Cebu province has declared a state of calamity.
- Over 600 aftershocks have been recorded since the quake.
- The region is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Manila, Oct 1 (NationPress) The death toll from the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Cebu province in the central Philippines has tragically risen to 69, according to the Philippines' Office of Civil Defence (OCD).
During a public briefing, Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro, the deputy administrator for the OCD, reported that 30 fatalities occurred in Bogo City, the earthquake's epicentre, while 10 were recorded in Medellin town, 22 in San Remigio town, five in Tabogon town, and one each in the municipalities of Sogod and Tabuelan.
The victims succumbed after being trapped under the rubble of collapsed walls of houses and buildings.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) initially stated that at least 147 individuals sustained injuries. Alejandro did not provide updated numbers on injuries or missing persons, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The death toll is anticipated to rise as emergency teams persist in search and rescue efforts for those trapped beneath debris and collapsed structures.
"We await the completion of our assessment team's rapid evaluation," Alejandro mentioned in a prior media briefing.
In response to the disaster, the province of Cebu has declared a state of calamity, allowing local government units to swiftly access emergency funds to facilitate relief and rehabilitation efforts, as well as implement measures like price freezes on essential goods to safeguard affected residents.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology initially recorded a 6.7-magnitude offshore earthquake striking Cebu province at 9:59 p.m. local time on Tuesday, later adjusting the magnitude to 6.9. The quake originated at a depth of 5 km, approximately 19 km northeast of Bogo City.
The tremors were felt across several neighboring provinces in central Philippines, and even in regions in the southern Philippines.
Since Tuesday night, the institute has documented over 600 aftershocks.
The Philippines is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area highly susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the people of the Philippines during this challenging time. Our commitment is to provide accurate coverage of the ongoing situation while emphasizing the resilience of affected communities and the importance of government response in disaster management.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the earthquake in Cebu?
The earthquake was caused by tectonic movements along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its seismic activity.
How is the government responding to the earthquake?
The Philippine government has declared a state of calamity in Cebu, allowing for rapid access to emergency funds and essential goods to support affected residents.
What should people do in case of aftershocks?
In case of aftershocks, it is advised to stay in open areas away from buildings, stay informed through official channels, and follow emergency guidelines.
How can I help the victims of the earthquake?
You can contribute by donating to reputable organizations involved in disaster relief efforts in the Philippines.
What is the latest update on the rescue operations?
Rescue operations are ongoing and emergency teams are working diligently to find survivors trapped in debris.
