A powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck central Philippines late Tuesday (Sep 30). At least 26 people died, and 147 others were injured. The quake hit at 9:50 pm local time (1359 GMT) off the northern coast of Cebu.
The tremors toppled buildings, triggered landslides, and left several towns in darkness. The US Geological Survey first measured the quake at 7.0 magnitude before lowering it to 6.9.
Deaths and Destruction Reported
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) confirmed the death toll on Wednesday (Oct 1). It also reported that 22 structures were damaged or destroyed.
Heart-wrenching footage from the Philippines A powerful 6.9 quake rocked Cebu damaging historic churches and forcing residents to flee homes amid booming noises and falling debris. At least 6 confirmed deaths so far.Let’s amplify Filipino voices and donate to relief.#earthquake pic.twitter.com/gmxtaExikX
— Saniya Khan (@KhanSaniya07) September 30, 2025
Among the dead were three coastguard officers killed when the roof of a sports center collapsed during a basketball game in San Remigio. In Bogo town, nine adults and four children died after being crushed by debris or buried in landslides.
Power Outages Across Central Islands
The quake damaged village roads and tripped power lines, plunging Cebu and nearby islands into darkness. The National Grid Corp later said power was restored after midnight in Cebu and four other major islands.
Aftershocks Shake the Region
Rescue workers warned that more victims may still be trapped under rubble. “There could be people beneath collapsed buildings,” said provincial rescue officer Wilson Ramos. He added that darkness and aftershocks slowed down rescue efforts.
Quake Shakes Philippines: 6.9 Tremor Hits Bohol, Damaging Church; 5 Killed pic.twitter.com/ORQ4V2etLw
— ExtraOrdinary (@Extreo_) September 30, 2025
The Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported at least 379 aftershocks across the region.
Government Response
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro urged residents to stay calm and remain alert. She also asked people to avoid damaged buildings and prepare for further tremors.
The NDRRMC said search and rescue teams are on the ground, while hospitals continue treating those injured. Many victims suffered fractures, head injuries, and trauma.
The Philippines is on the “Ring of Fire”
The Philippines lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a zone known for frequent and deadly earthquakes and volcanic activity. Cebu, one of the country’s most populated provinces, has faced major quakes in the past.
Officials said disaster response teams remain on high alert as rescue operations continue. The death toll may rise as search efforts uncover more victims trapped under collapsed structures.
