Two days after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck their hometowns in the central Philippines, residents like Arguel Estalicas are still grappling with dizziness and fear. The 35-year-old tourism officer, like many others, is too afraid to return home, opting for temporary shelter in tents.
The powerful quake, which hit the northern coast of Cebu on the night of September 30th, has tragically claimed at least 68 lives and injured over 500 people. Homes, churches, and businesses were reduced to rubble, and roads were fractured, plunging communities into chaos.
Ms. Estalicas described the terrifying moments the earthquake struck, prompting her family to flee their home. Sleeping outdoors offered little comfort, and when a light rain began, they resorted to using plastic bags for shelter, a stark image captured on social media showing their plight.
The earthquake has displaced an estimated 80,000 people across Cebu and surrounding provinces. Cebu, a vital trading and transportation hub, now faces the daunting task of recovery.
In San Remigio, another affected area, Lourenze Pareja, a 25-year-old community journalist, shared his experience of witnessing the devastation firsthand. He described the town, once vibrant, as having turned into a ‘ghost town’ after the quake. The aftermath revealed streets strewn with boulders and makeshift hospitals treating the injured, with body bags lined up on the street.
The Philippines, situated on the “Ring of Fire,” is highly susceptible to natural disasters. This latest earthquake is one of the most severe in recent years, echoing the devastating 7.2-magnitude quake in Bohol in 2013 that claimed over 200 lives.
As rescuers continue to search through debris, authorities are working to restore essential services, including power and communication lines, and clear roads. The military has deployed troops to assist in the ongoing relief efforts.
However, the immediate needs of the affected population, particularly food and water for children, remain a critical concern. Many shops are closed, and getting essential supplies is proving difficult due to long queues for fuel. The resilience of the Filipino people is evident, with survivors supporting each other through ‘bayanihan,’ or community spirit, as they await much-needed aid.
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