Cebu province has been placed under a state of calamity following the massive quake that struck off northern Cebu Tuesday night and left several people dead and injured.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued Executive Order No. 57 declaring the entire province under a state of calamity, which was later confirmed by the Provincial Board.
The city government of Bogo passed a resolution placing the city under a state of calamity due to multiple deaths, widespread damage to public infrastructure and private properties, and the disruption of basic services.
“Initial rapid assessment from frontline offices and agencies show unfathomable damage, multiple casualties, displaced residents, and disruption of essential services,” the Bogo City resolution read.
Bogo City was among the hardest hit by the 6.9 magnitude quake past 9 p.m. Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the Joint Operation Center confirmed that 53 people died after being crushed by collapsed structures.
Of this number, 25 deaths were recorded in Bogo City, while additional casualties were reported in the nearby town of San Remigio.
The epicenter of the earthquake was traced 12 miles northeast of Bogo at a shallow depth of 3 miles, according to authorities.
Medical response
Meanwhile, Baricuatro said the surge of patients forced medical staff to attend to some victims outside hospitals.
To augment local health workers, trauma teams from the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, the Provincial Health Office, and the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation were deployed to the hardest-hit areas.
According to the provincial government’s official statement posted to Facebook, the neighboring province of Bohol is sending its medical staff to support Cebu’s operations.
“Meanwhile, South Cotabato Governor has confirmed to Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro that relief goods, hygiene kits, and a medical team are already on their way from General Santos City to Cebu,” the statement read.
The province continues to coordinate with partner provinces and agencies to ensure timely aid and medical support for the people of Bogo and other affected areas. *PNA