Cebu: Officials here have sought assistance from the national government as Governor Pamela Baricuatro led mayors in assessing the damage caused by the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck the northern city of Bogo Tuesday evening.
According to Philippines News Agency, eighteen confirmed deaths were reported in Bogo City and San Remigio. Governor Baricuatro stated, "I am already in touch with national agencies and the Office of the President kay nangayo ta (we are asking) for reinforcement," as she discussed ongoing efforts to coordinate support and relief operations. The Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Office is actively conducting assessments to determine the extent of the damage.
The Cebu Provincial Information Office confirmed reports that nine adults and four minors died in Bogo City. Bogo City Mayor Mayel Martinez has established the Incident Command System to facilitate rescue operations and conduct further risk assessment. In San Remigio, five deaths were confirmed by the town's Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, including three personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard and one member of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Governor Baricuatro urged local mayors to be proactive in assisting their communities and to communicate their needs to the Emergency Operations Center at the provincial capitol.
Mayor Gilbert Arrabis Jr. from the nearby town of Daanbantayan reported significant structural damage to local buildings, including the collapse of the Archdiocesan Shrine of Sta. Rosa de Lima in Barangay Poblacion. Several bridges in the area are also under assessment to ensure they are safe for motorists.
A widely shared video on social media captured the moment the church's structure collapsed during the earthquake. In response, the Archdiocese of Cebu posted a prayer for protection and called for help in rebuilding the churches that have served as places of refuge and hope for the community.
Arrabis ordered the closure of two bridges, one near the Daanbantayan public market and another in Suba, due to significant damage. In Lapu-Lapu City, Mayor Cynthia Chan lifted a temporary ban on all vehicles on the first Cebu-Mactan Bridge at 10 p.m. Tuesday. However, only light vehicles are currently allowed as assessments continue to ensure the bridge's structural integrity. Inspections of key city infrastructure, including the Lapu-Lapu City Hospital and City Hall, are also underway to ensure safety.
The Office of the Building Official has been tasked with assessing all buildings in the city to evaluate the damage and maintain public safety.
