Death toll in strong quake in Philippines rises to 69

A magnitude-6.9 earthquake struck Cebu province in the central Philippines late Tuesday, killing at least 69 people, according to the Office of Civil Defense. Most victims were reported in Bogo City, the quake’s epicenter, with additional deaths in nearby towns. Many were killed when houses and buildings collapsed.
Authorities said over 140 people were initially reported injured, and the toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue. Cebu has declared a state of calamity, allowing faster release of emergency funds and relief measures.
The quake, initially measured at 6.7 and later revised to 6.9, hit at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers and was felt across central and southern Philippines. More than 600 aftershocks have been recorded since the tremor.
Credit : CGTN