A powerful earthquake measuring 6.5 magnitude has struck the central Philippines, sending panic through communities and causing multiple fatalities across the affected regions.
Widespread Damage and Tragic Losses
The quake, which struck at a depth of 10 kilometres according to the United States Geological Survey, has resulted in at least one confirmed death with several others reported missing. Rescue operations are currently underway as emergency services work tirelessly to reach affected areas.
Local authorities have confirmed that several buildings have sustained significant damage, including collapsed structures in Cebu province. Power outages have been reported across multiple municipalities, hampering rescue efforts during the critical early hours following the seismic event.
Regional Impact and Aftershocks
The earthquake's epicentre was located approximately 5 kilometres northeast of Tayasan municipality in Negros Oriental province. The seismic activity was felt across several islands including Cebu, Negros, and Bohol, with residents reporting strong shaking that lasted for several seconds.
"We felt very strong shaking that lasted about 30 seconds," reported one resident from nearby Cebu City. "People ran out of buildings in panic, and we're now experiencing intermittent power outages."
Emergency Response Mobilised
Philippine disaster response teams have been immediately deployed to assess the full extent of the damage. Local hospitals have been placed on high alert, and evacuation centres are being established in safer areas as aftershocks continue to rattle the region.
The Philippines, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, regularly experiences seismic activity. This latest earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters and the importance of robust emergency preparedness systems.
