Relief, recovery efforts intensify as Cebu quake death toll rises to 71

The death toll from the powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck northern Cebu has climbed to 71 while at least 559 others were injured, according to the latest situational report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) released on Sunday, Oct. 5.

- MARTIN SADONGDONG, AARON RECUENCO, ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ, and ELLSON QUISMORIO

The earthquake, which jolted parts of Central Visayas last Sept. 30, caused widespread destruction in Bogo City, San Remigio, Medellin, and neighboring municipalities.

Rescue operations have now transitioned into relief and early recovery efforts as national and local agencies continue to provide aid to affected residents.

Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Undersecretary Harold Cabreros extended his sympathies to the bereaved families of those who lost their lives not only in the Cebu earthquake but also due to recent typhoons "Opong," "Nando," and "Mirasol." Forty more people died from the recent typhoons. Meanwhile, typhoon Paolo did not cause any casualty but around 70,000 families or 225,000 individuals were affected in the entire Luzon.

"It is deeply saddening to witness the struggles faced by our fellow Filipinos due to the devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclone "Opong" and now the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu. We were in Masbate when the earthquake occurred. It is heartwrenching to see the impacts - the loss of lives, the seriously injured, the overwhelmed hospitals, and the destruction of homes, facilities, and infrastructure," Cabreros said.

"I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. To the affected communities, we assure you that government response operations are ongoing and support will continue," he added.

Cabreros announced that efforts have now shifted toward relief and early recovery operations.