A powerful earthquake struck northern Cebu on Tuesday evening, causing widespread devastation and leaving nearly 70 people confirmed dead, with dozens more reported missing.

The epicenter of the 7.1-magnitude quake was near Bogo City, triggering significant damage across the region.

Heritage churches, residential homes, and schools were among the structures severely affected, while extensive power outages disrupted daily life. Eyewitness accounts describe residents scrambling for safety as the tremor lasted nearly half a minute, with almost a thousand aftershocks recorded within 24 hours. Collapsed buildings, cracked roads, and damaged churches forced many to seek refuge in the streets, fearing further strong tremors.

Civil defense official Raffy Alejandro described the situation as “very fluid,” with casualty figures continuing to rise.

“We are receiving additional reports of casualties, so the numbers are constantly changing,” he said.

President Ferdinand Marcos has ordered government agencies to expedite search and rescue operations, emphasizing the critical first 24 hours for locating survivors trapped in the rubble. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and have their homes inspected by engineers before returning.

Local officials and residents are appealing for immediate assistance as they grapple with the widespread destruction and ongoing aftershocks.

📷 Jackie Lafavilla, Nicodimo Saguinel, contributed photos