Manila, October 1(HS):

A severe 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines late Tuesday, causing widespread destruction on Cebu island and killing at least 19 people, with fears of rising fatalities as rescue teams continue searching for survivors.

The earthquake, which struck near Bogo city at 9:50 pm local time, toppled buildings and triggered deadly landslides. Nine adults and four children died in Bogo, including three buried under landslide debris. Five deaths were reported in nearby San Remigio municipality, where a collapsed sports center claimed the lives of three coastguard members and others. One fatality was confirmed in Tabuelan.

Provincial authorities called for medical volunteers to aid ongoing rescue operations. Darkness and frequent aftershocks—379 recorded by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology—have hampered efforts. Essential infrastructure, including roads and power lines, suffered damage, but power was mostly restored by early Wednesday.

Eyewitnesses described shaking strong enough to cause dizziness and panic. Multiple buildings, including schools, commercial establishments, and religious structures, were severely damaged or destroyed. Officials have urged residents to remain calm and stay in open areas to avoid danger from aftershocks.

The Philippines lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an active seismic zone prone to frequent earthquakes, most of which are minor. However, destructive quakes strike unpredictably, with no reliable early-warning systems in place.This tragic event marks one of the deadliest recent earthquakes in the region, underlining the ongoing vulnerability of communities in this seismic hotspot.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar