Devastating Earthquake Claims 69 Lives in Cebu, Philippines

Tue Oct 21 2025 07:12:29 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines, resulting in significant casualties and prompting the province of Cebu to declare a state of calamity. Thousands are left homeless and in distress as aid efforts begin amidst ongoing aftershocks.

In a tragic event, a 6.9 magnitude earthquake hit the province of Cebu in the Philippines, leading to at least 69 fatalities and extensive injuries. The earthquake struck late Tuesday, causing widespread panic and forcing residents onto the streets. With reports of considerable damage, rescue operations are underway as survivors cope with aftershocks and seek urgent medical attention.

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 over a dozen people.

Most of the fatalities occurred in Bogo City, the town closest to the quake's epicenter. Images emerging from Bogo show cadaver bags lined on the street and hundreds being treated in temporary hospitals.

Local authorities are appealing for medical volunteers to help treat the injured. Damaged roads and fallen bridges are hindering access for emergency teams, while many areas are without power and communication.

Among the deceased were seven individuals who resided in a village built for victims of Typhoon Haiyan 12 years prior. In San Remigio, where a basketball game was ongoing when the quake struck, several attendees were injured, with at least one confirmed fatality.

Authorities are prioritizing search and rescue efforts, and a 4.7 magnitude aftershock rattled Bogo shortly after, though no additional casualties have been reported.

Cebu's archbishop urged congregants to stay away from churches until they can be assessed for structural safety.

The Philippines is situated on the tectonically active Ring of Fire, making it highly susceptible to earthquakes and typhoons. Recent storms had already displaced countless people, emphasizing the region's vulnerability to natural disasters.