Dozens killed, hundreds injured as powerful quake hits Philippines

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of the central Philippines on Tuesday evening, with the US Geological Survey saying there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

According to the US Geological Survey, the quake hit near Bogo city, home to around 90000 residents. The tremors triggered widespread panic as aftershocks—nearly 379 overnight—shook the region. Hospitals quickly became overwhelmed. Cebu Provincial Hospital moved patients outside into makeshift tents due to fears of further building damage. Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the volume of patients was so high that some had to be transferred to other facilities. Medical staff treated many victims outdoors while rescue teams worked through the night.

The Bogo hospital reported 53 confirmed deaths and 154 injured, while officials warned the casualty toll could rise as rescue operations continued. Survivors described harrowing escapes. Richard Guion, injured alongside his wife, said their teenage son saved them after digging them out from under their collapsed concrete wall. Rescue workers also reported possible victims trapped under debris. Roads in Tabogon developed large cracks, while damaged bridges in Cebu forced commuters to cling to railings as the ground shook violently.

Power outages spread across Cebu and nearby islands but were largely restored by midnight. Authorities appealed for medical volunteers as local TV footage showed widespread structural damage, including the collapse of a historic church belfry on Bantayan island. The Philippines, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent earthquakes. Most are minor, but devastating quakes strike unpredictably. Officials said emergency teams are continuing search and relief efforts while residents remain on alert for strong aftershocks.