At Least 69 Dead After 6.9 Cebu Quake

A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off Cebu Island near Bogo City at about 9:59 p.m. at a shallow depth of roughly 5 km, causing widespread destruction to historic churches, schools, homes and infrastructure and triggering power outages, water shortages and a brief tsunami warning that was later lifted. Officials say the death toll has risen to at least 69 with hundreds injured and hospitals overwhelmed, forcing treatment in makeshift tents. Rescue teams are clearing debris as thousands remain displaced in open fields amid heavy rains and fears of aftershocks. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered government agencies to mobilize relief, and the Department of Health deployed medical teams to affected areas. The Department of Social Welfare and Development has ₱379 million in standby funds and 2.4 million family food packs prepositioned, and agencies were directed to tap quick-response funds as damage assessments and aid operations continue.