The Archdiocese of Cebu has prevented the use of churches in areas affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that shook Cebu Tuesday night.
In an advisory, the Cebu archdiocese asked priests to refrain from going inside churches in quake-hit areas.
“To the parishes in the North that have been gravely affected, you are asked to refrain from using your churches for the celebration of the Holy Mass,” it said.
At the same time, the archdiocese has ordered the structural assessment of churches in Cebu.
“Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy has directed that a structural assessment be conducted on all our churches and rectories,” it said.
“Refrain from using your churches until the proper experts have carried out the assessment and declared the structures safe for use,” the archdiocese added.
At the same time, the Archdiocese of Cebu offered a prayer for those affected by the earthquake.
“We come before You in this moment of trial, lifting up to You all our brothers and sisters affected by the recent earthquake. We pray for their safety and protection. Comfort the fearful, strengthen the weary, and surround the injured and displaced with Your tender care,” it said.
The archdiocese also offered prayers for the churches in northern Cebu destroyed by the earthquake.
“These sacred spaces have long been places of prayer, hope, and refuge. May they rise again as signs of Your enduring presence among us. Inspire the generosity of hearts and hands to help rebuild what was lost,” it said.
On Tuesday night, a strong tremor hit Cebu with the epicenter located some 21 kilometers northeast of Bogo City.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on Wednesday that at least 26 people died due to the quake. (PNA)