At least 60 people have been killed in a powerful earthquake that struck the Philippine island of Cebu, with fears that the death toll could rise further. The 6.9-magnitude quake hit near the northern town of Bogo at 9:59 p.m. local time on Tuesday.
Rafaelito Alejandro, deputy administrator of the Philippines’ National Disaster Management Office, said that casualty figures are being updated constantly as the situation continues to evolve. Cebu Governor Pamela Bariquatro confirmed that 25 deaths were recorded at the provincial hospital in Bogo alone. The number of injured is so high that many are being treated outside the hospital due to lack of space.
According to official reports, at least 147 people have been injured and more than 22 buildings severely damaged. Local authorities and rescue workers have intensified relief efforts in the affected areas. Residents of Cebu have been advised to remain on high alert amid fears of aftershocks and further damage.