6.9-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Cebu; Death Toll Unclear

A powerful magnitude-6.9 earthquake struck off northern Cebu near Bogo late Tuesday night (around 9:50–9:59 p.m.), producing strong shaking and hundreds of aftershocks. The quake caused widespread damage — including collapsed buildings, a church, a sports complex and landslides that buried homes — with Bogo City, San Remigio and nearby towns hardest hit. Casualty reports vary as search-and-rescue operations continue, with officials and media citing death tolls from at least 19 to as many as 69, dozens to hundreds injured, and many people displaced. Recovery has been hampered by darkness, continuing aftershocks, power outages and road damage, prompting urgent appeals for volunteers and medical personnel. Local authorities have declared states of calamity in some municipalities, international offers of help (including from Guam) have been made, and numerous relief groups and charities have launched donation drives. Officials warned aftershocks continue and the death toll may rise as assessments and rescue efforts proceed.