A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the central Philippines late Tuesday, causing significant destruction, scores of casualties, and widespread panic as buildings collapsed and power was cut in several areas.

The death toll has climbed to at least 69 , with more than 150 others injured as homes, churches, and public infrastructure suffered severe damage.

The epicenter was located about 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo, a coastal city in Cebu province, at a shallow depth of only 5 kilometers beneath the surface. The Philippines Institute of Volcanology and Seismology initially issued a tsunami alert but lifted it after confirming no abnormal waves were generated.

Some townships, including Medellin and San Remigio, reported families trapped and buildings, including sports centers a

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