Philippines: Deadly earthquake kills over 60 in Cebu, over 600 aftershocks cause panic
A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 hit near Cebu province in the central Philippines late on Tuesday, causing at least 69 deaths and injuring hundreds. Continuous aftershocks have been felt in the Philippine province of Cebu.
The earthquake damaged homes, roads, and public buildings in an area that was already recovering from a bad storm just days before.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, at least 611 aftershocks have been felt in the area since the earthquake.
The earthquake's center was about 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo and was shallow, only 5 kilometers deep. A short tsunami warning was given but was later canceled.
Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro said that the full damage might not be known until morning.
The Cebu government has declared a state of emergency throughout the province.
14 people died in Bogo
In the coastal city of Bogo, 14 people died when a landslide buried homes in a mountain village. Bogo City officials said the earthquake caused "significant damage" and "despite our efforts, the number of casualties is rising."
In Medellin, 12 people were killed when parts of houses fell down. In San Remigio, five people, including three coast guard members and a firefighter, died when walls collapsed during a basketball game.
Rescue teams are having a hard time reaching some villages because roads are cracked and there are power outages. Many residents spent the night outside, worried about aftershocks.
Deputy Administrator of the Office of Civil Defense Rafaelito Alejandro said the situation on the ground is dire. Alejandro said the OCD is receiving "reports of more than 60 deaths."
President Marcos' Appeal
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a statement urging people to remain vigilant and follow local authorities' instructions.
He stated that work to restore power is underway and additional staff is being sent to hospitals.
Marcos said, "My thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones. My prayers are with the injured and all those affected."
Quake also affected pageants
The tremors also affected the Miss Asia Pacific International beauty pageant in Cebu.
Videos circulating on social media showed contestants running off the stage in high heels and traditional Filipina attire.