MANILA (Reuters) — The death toll from a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck off the central Philippines late on Tuesday has risen to 72, the civil defense agency said.
Another 294 people were injured, the agency said in a report on Thursday. The latest death toll was an increase of three from Wednesday and all fatalities were recorded in the central Visayas region.
The shallow quake struck waters off the central island of Cebu late at night, damaging power lines, bridges and multiple buildings, including a church that was more than 100 years old.
The Cebu quake was the country’s deadliest since at least 2013, when a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck the neighboring island of Bohol, killing 222 people.
The Philippines sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” and experiences more than 800 quakes each year.
Guam governor offers condolences
Guam Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero on Wednesday extended her condolences to the people of the Philippines following the devastating 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck the central island of Cebu and surrounding areas late Tuesday night.
On behalf of the People of Guam, Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio and her husband Jeff, the Governor has sent a formal letter of sympathy to the Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines in Guam, offering prayers for the victims, their families, and all affected communities.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of life and destruction caused by this powerful earthquake,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “Though Guam faces its own challenges, we cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering of others — especially our brothers and sisters in the Philippines, with whom we share such deep ties of family, history, and friendship. Guam stands ready to help in any way possible.”
The Governor emphasized that Guam’s government and community remain committed to supporting the Philippines in the wake of this tragedy.
“As relief efforts continue, we will share information with the public on concrete ways to help,” the Governor added. “In times of crisis, our shared humanity must always guide us to compassion and action.”
Archbishop calls for prayers
Archbishop of Agaña Ryan P. Jimenez sends his love and prayers to the Philippines and asks the people of Guam to also pray especially for those killed by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck the central island of Cebu.
“There is terrible suffering in the Philippines, particularly by those who have lost or are missing loved ones due to the earthquake,” Archbishop Ryan said.
“There is also tremendous trauma and fear among the general Filipino population in the area, anxious that more tremors will befall the people. Therefore, may I ask our Catholics and all people to kindly offer prayers for our neighbors in Christ, for whom we share indelible cultural, spiritual and familial bonds.
“Please pray too for the numerous emergency and rescue workers, that the Lord will provide all they need to save lives, rescue survivors and comfort the wounded and afflicted,” the archbishop said.
“Merciful God please hear our prayers. Santa Marian Kamalen, pray and intercede for your children in need.”
