Girl killed in Cebu stampede

Rescuers try to uncover an unidentified man under slabs of cement in Cebu City, Philippines after a major 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck the region on October 15, 2013. At least 20 people were killed on October 15 when the earthquake tore down buildings across three islands that are among the Philippines’ most popular tourist attractions, authorities said. AFP/Chester Baldicanto

MANILA, Philippines—A stampede in the payout of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Cebu city killed a four-year-old girl and injured over 20.

Cebu third district representative Gwen Garcia said that the stampede happened at a sports complex in Pinamungahan town during the Pantawid Pamilya distribution of assistance to beneficiaries affected by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit the city and other parts of Visayas and Mindanao Tuesday morning.

“[The persons were affected] not because of the earthquake, but because of the aftermath,” Garcia said in an interview with Radyo Inquirer 990 AM.

She said that authorities were still waiting for complete reports confirming the number same occurrence in Toledo City where Pantawid Program personnel distributed assistance to the 4Ps beneficiaries.

The former Cebu governor said the Cebu City government has provided medical aid to the casualties of the stampede.

Sponsored by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Pantawid Pamilya program provides cash assistance to the poor to alleviate their immediate need.

At least 20 have been killed amid the intense earthquake.