A powerful magnitude-6.9 earthquake rocked the central Philippines this week, leaving communities shaken and rescue teams scrambling. Updated figures released Friday show 68 confirmed deaths and 559 injured – a tragic revision from earlier reports as search efforts continue.
Survivors described heart-stopping moments to CGTN Stringer reporters. 💬 "The ground felt like it was dancing," said Christian, a local resident. "Our walls cracked like spiderwebs. Every aftershock sends panic through our neighborhood."
While infrastructure damage appears less catastrophic than initially feared, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council warns many areas remain inaccessible. Emergency crews are working around the clock to deliver supplies and assess remote villages.
🌪️ The quake serves as a stark reminder of the Philippines' position along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," where tectonic tensions frequently erupt. Scientists predict aftershocks could continue for weeks.
