A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Cebu, Philippines on the evening of September 30, leaving destruction in its wake. Survivors, like Arguel Estalicas, are experiencing lingering effects, including dizziness, due to the trauma and aftershocks.
The earthquake has resulted in at least 68 fatalities and over 500 injuries, with extensive damage to homes, buildings, and infrastructure. Nearly 80,000 people have been displaced across the affected regions.
Residents recount their panic during the quake; many fled their homes, only to spend the night out in the open with limited shelter as rain began to fall. As for daily necessities, access to food, water, and fuel remains critically low.
Despite the challenges, the local community has come together in a spirit of bayanihan—collective support to help one another through the crisis. The Philippine military has joined the efforts to restore order and facilitate relief operations.
The earthquake comes at a time of heightened vulnerability for the region, already impacted by severe typhoons and adverse weather. As Cebu begins the recovery process, survivors remain hopeful for swift aid and support from the government and neighboring communities.
