On Tuesday 30 September, a powerful earthquake struck the Philippines, killing at least 69 people.
This disaster comes just a week after a series of destructive typhoons struck communities, destroying homes, collapsing roads and cutting off vital power supplies. Families who were already struggling from those storms now face yet another devastating crisis.
Where did the earthquake strike in the Philippines?
A strong magnitude earthquake of 6.9 struck the central Philippines on 30 September at 10pm local time.
The province of Cebu has suffered the greatest devastation and has now declared a state of calamity. This is an official recognition of the scale of destruction and disruption facing local communities.
At least 69 people have sadly died, most from the small town of Bogo. Rescuers continue to search desperately through the rubble for survivors, while authorities rush to deliver urgent aid.
The Philippines is prone to disasters triggered by natural hazards and dangerous tropical storms – a situation made so much worse by the climate crisis.
How has the earthquake affected communities?
Thousands of families are still working to recover from the devastating impact of powerful typhoons (severe tropical storms) that only hit last week. These storms have already destroyed homes, cut off electricity and left communities without accessible roads.
Now, many of these same communities have been struck again by the earthquake. Roads have cracked and bridges have collapsed, making the delivery of life-saving aid even more difficult.
What is CAFOD doing to help? And what can you do?
Local Church agencies are currently assessing the situation in the aftermath of this disaster, and establishing the needs of communities. As part of Caritas Internationalis, CAFOD stands ready to respond to any requests for support.
We invite you to please keep families in the Philippines in your prayers through these difficult times.
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