Manila: A strong earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck the Philippines on Tuesday night, according to local and international media reports. The strong tremors forced people out of their homes and led to a power cut in parts of Cebu province in Central Philippines. The tremor was recorded shortly after 10 p.m. local time (7:19 p.m. IST) on Tuesday. While some news reports said that the earthquake was centred around 17 kilometres northeast of Bogo City, the US Geological Survey reported that the epicentre lay about 11 kilometres east-southeast of Calape, a town in Bohol province home to roughly 33,000 residents.
Widespread impact across islands
While initially there were fears of a localised tsunami, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre subsequently confirmed that there was no tsunami threat following the tremors. However, the authorities have warned of possible aftershocks and have begun surveying affected communities.
The quake, triggered by movement along a local fault, caused visible damage to a centuries-old stone church in the town of Daanbantayan. The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.
Residents in the Visayan Islands, particularly in Cebu and Leyte, reported intense shaking. Estimates suggest that more than half a million people felt the tremor, which struck just 10 kilometres below ground. The US Geological Survey warned that poorly built structures may suffer severe damage, while sturdier buildings could sustain moderate cracks.
A disaster-prone nation
The Philippines is no stranger to natural disasters. Situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the country frequently experiences earthquakes and volcanic activity. In addition, it is battered by about 20 typhoons each year, compounding the vulnerability of its communities.
(This is a developing story and will be updated as more details emerge)
(With input from agencies)