In brief
A devastating 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines, resulting in 69 fatalities and numerous injuries. The province of Cebu has declared a state of calamity as residents faced repeated aftershocks and significant infrastructure damage, complicating rescue operations. The earthquake follows recent typhoons that also affected the region, underscoring the vulnerability of the Philippines to natural disasters.
At least 69 people have been killed and dozens injured after a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines late on Tuesday.
The province of Cebu, which suffered the brunt of the damage, declared a state of calamity early on Wednesday, after thousands spent the night on the streets amid repeated aftershocks.
One Cebu resident told the BBC he was among them, adding that power and water supplies were cut off. He says the voices of crying children could be heard around him, adding that they were traumatised.
The earthquake comes barely more than a week after the country was hit by back-to-back typhoons which killed more than a dozen people.
Most of the victims were from Bogo City, where cadaver bags lined the streets, and hundreds were treated in temporary hospitals. Local officials are appealing for medical volunteers to assist with the emergency care needed.
The aftermath of the earthquake has complicated rescue efforts due to buckled roads and downed power lines, hampering communication with affected communities.
This catastrophe overlaps with the historical vulnerability of the Philippines to natural disasters, situated on the geologically active Ring of Fire.
