Earthquake in Central Philippines Claims 13 Lives, Triggers Eruption

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck central Philippines late on March 19, 2024, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals and causing significant damage across the region. The tremor occurred at approximately 22:00 local time, with the epicenter located just west of Palompon, near the city of Bogo in Cebu province.

The earthquake’s impact was particularly devastating in the town of San Remigio, where a sports complex collapsed during a basketball game. According to Richard Gordon, chairman of the Philippine Red Cross, three members of the Philippine Coast Guard and one firefighter were among those who lost their lives in this tragic incident. Gordon described the earthquake as a “sleeper” event, noting that it “crept up on us” and took many by surprise.

Aftermath and Response

Images and videos shared on social media captured the chaos in Cebu province, including a fire that erupted at a local mall following the earthquake. Joey Leeguid, a firefighter in San Fernando town, reported feeling the tremor strongly at their station. “We saw our locker moving from left to right,” he said, adding that his team felt slightly dizzy during the quake but remained unharmed.

The Philippine Red Cross reported widespread damage, including partial collapses of churches and schools, as well as temporary power outages in various areas. Schools in Cebu indicated structural concerns, with reports of debris and cracks in buildings. Local authorities are conducting assessments to respond to the immediate needs of affected communities.

In addition to the earthquake, there was a minor eruption from Taal Volcano, located approximately 70 km (about 45 miles) south of central Manila. This added to the concerns in the region, prompting local seismology officials to issue warnings about potential “minor sea-level disturbances.” Residents in the central islands of Leyte, Cebu, and Biliran were advised to avoid coastal areas.

Martham Pacilan, a resident of the resort town of Bantayan near the epicenter, described the moment the earthquake struck. “I heard a loud booming noise from the direction of the church then I saw rocks falling from the structure,” he recounted. Fortunately, he noted that no one was injured, although he experienced shock and panic during the event.

In response to the crisis, Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro urged residents to remain calm and assured them that the provincial government was mobilizing resources to assist those in need. “Know that the provincial government is doing its best. Help is coming,” she stated.

As the region begins to recover, the focus remains on assessing damage, supporting affected communities, and ensuring the safety of residents in the wake of this devastating earthquake. Emergency services continue to monitor the situation closely, ready to respond to any further developments.