A powerful magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck Surigao del Sur province in the southern Philippines on December 2, leaving at least three people dead and eight others injured, according to officials.
The quake, which hit in the early hours of the morning, caused widespread damage across the region, toppling buildings and triggering landslides. Residents were shaken awake by the violent tremors, scrambling to evacuate as structures began to collapse.
Lalaine Beatero, a resident of the City of Tandag, recounted the harrowing moment her home collapsed. “Everything was destroyed,” she told reporters. “The walls started to crack, and within seconds, the entire house gave way. We barely made it out alive.”
Emergency services have been deployed to the affected areas, with rescue teams working tirelessly to search for survivors amid the rubble. Local authorities have declared a state of calamity, mobilizing resources to assist those displaced by the disaster.
“Our immediate priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens,” said the provincial governor. “We are coordinating with national agencies to provide relief and begin the process of rebuilding.”
The Philippine archipelago sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic plates collide, causing frequent seismic and volcanic activity. The country experiences numerous earthquakes each year, though most are of mild intensity and cause little damage.
The recent quake serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness. Communities across the nation are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety protocols during such events.
Reference(s):
Locals in quake-hit Philippine region recall moment homes collapsed
cgtn.com
