Cebu (October 1, 2025) – A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck northern Cebu late Tuesday night, causing widespread destruction across towns and cities. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported at least 26 fatalities and 147 injuries as of Wednesday morning, with authorities warning that the death toll could rise.
The tremor originated offshore from active faults northeast of Cebu Island. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the epicenter was located approximately 19 kilometers north and 70 kilometers east of Bogo City.
Severe Damage in Medellin and Bogo
In Medellin, DZRH News FM Cebu Station Manager Louie Reyes reported extensive casualties and infrastructure damage. “Sa municipality of Medellin, more than 10 fatalities, marami mga bata,” Reyes said, noting that several children were among the victims.
Two main bridges connecting the town were destroyed, forcing vehicles to take alternate routes. Power and water supply were cut, and residents endured multiple aftershocks throughout the night, with tremors felt as late as 4:40 a.m.
Bogo City, the quake’s epicenter, also suffered significant damage. Several roads split open, creating large fissures that disrupted traffic and necessitated rerouting by local authorities.
Tragedy in San Remigio Sports Complex
In San Remigio, south of Bogo, a basketball game turned deadly when the local sports complex partially collapsed during the quake. Reports indicate that over 10 people were trapped under the rubble. Hospitals in the area struggled to accommodate the surge of patients, prompting the setup of temporary evacuation centers.
Medellin Mayor Edwin Salimbangon dispatched tents and other emergency facilities to shelter displaced residents and patients. Some pregnant women were reportedly forced to give birth outdoors due to the overwhelmed medical facilities.
PHIVOLCS Reports Aftershocks and Lifts Tsunami Advisory
PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol said that 347 aftershocks had been recorded as of 3 a.m., with the strongest reaching magnitude 4.8. He emphasized that aftershocks could continue for several weeks and urged residents to follow safety protocols such as “duck, cover, and hold” during tremors. He also recommended structural assessments by engineers before returning to damaged buildings.
A tsunami information bulletin was issued Tuesday night following minor sea level disturbances but was lifted at 1:20 a.m. No significant waves were recorded.
The Cebu Provincial Information Office confirmed 27 deaths in Bogo City so far, with further assessments ongoing in rural areas hardest hit by the earthquake.