Death toll from earthquake in Philippines rises to 69

AKIPRESS.COM – The death toll from the 6.9 magnitude earthquake in the Philippines has risen to 69, with approximately 200 people injured, the Associated Press reported on Wednesday.

“Search and rescue operations are still underway. There are reports about people being trapped or hit by debris,” Deputy Administrator of the Office of Civil Defense Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro said.

It is noted that the number of dead and injured may increase. The work of rescue services is complicated by rains and damaged bridges and roads.

Bogo city in Cebu province and nearby settlements were the hardest hit by the earthquake.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the 6.9 magnitude earthquake occurred on Tuesday around 10:00 pm local time, with the epicenter lying 10 km underwater near Bogo.

A tsunami warning was initially issued but was later canceled.