Magnitude 7.0 Earthquake Jolts Philippines, Triggering Tsunami Warning and Widespread Damage

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude between 6.8 and 7.0 struck Leyte in the Philippines, causing significant damage and prompting tsunami warnings. The quake, occurring underwater at a depth of around 10 kilometers, triggered warnings for residents near shorelines on Leyte, Cebu, and Biliran islands to move inland immediately. Several structures, including centuries-old churches like the Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Bantayan Island, partially collapsed due to the tremors. Despite fears of a tsunami, authorities and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed there was no threat to the Hawaiian Islands or broader Pacific Basin. Videos captured during the quake showed people evacuating buildings, including a livestream by influencer Sam Pepper who had to flee a restaurant. Officials urged calm while assessing damage and potential casualties following the event.