Deadly Quake Rocks Cebu: Panic and Chaos at Basketball Game
A powerful earthquake struck Cebu Island at 9.59pm local time, with its epicentre near Bogo City. Tragedy unfolded at the San Remigio sports complex where a basketball game was in full swing. Multiple deaths were reported as panicked spectators were trapped under falling debris while fleeing the venue, according to the Manila Bulletin. Rescue officials warned more victims could be trapped under damaged buildings. Heartbreakingly, a child was killed in their sleep when debris collapsed on their home.
Widespread Destruction and Aftershocks Hammer Cebu
The quake caused significant damage to buildings and roads, including a historic stone church and a McDonald’s in Cebu, which suffered smashed windows and ceiling damage. Power was knocked out in the town of Daanbantayan. Shortly after, a strong aftershock measuring magnitude 5.2 rattled the region.
“We felt the shake at our fire station. Lockers were moving side to side – it was strong,” said Cebu firefighter Joey Leeguid. “We felt dizzy but are all safe now.”
Locals Relive Terror of the Tremors
Martham Pacilan, 25, from Bantayan town, described the horror: “I heard a loud boom from the church direction, then rocks fell. Luckily, no one was hurt. I was frozen, waiting for the shaking to stop.” Carer Agnes Merza recounted, “The kitchen tiles cracked. It felt like we would all collapse. Neighbours ran outside, and my assistants hid under a table like they were taught.”
No Tsunami Threat, But Authorities Urge Caution
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed there is no tsunami threat following the quake. However, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology warned of possible minor sea-level disturbances, more aftershocks, and further damage. Residents on Leyte, Cebu, and Biliran islands have been urged to avoid coastal areas as a safety precaution.
Philippines on High Alert in Earthquake Hotspot
Located within the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire,’ the Philippines faces frequent seismic activity, though most earthquakes are minor. Despite this, no technology can yet predict when a major tremor will strike. For breaking updates and eyewitness accounts, stay tuned.
