As aftershocks continue, people told to stay out, run to higher ground

Damage to the roof and structure of the Church of San Pedro in the town Loboc, Bohol is seen after a major 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck the region on October 15, 2013. AFP

CEBU CITY—A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit the Visayan provinces of Cebu, Bohol and Iloilo, sending people out of their homes and offices and triggering a blackout.

The epicenter was traced 2 kilometers south of Carmen town in Bohol, with a depth of 56.8 kilometers.

Local officials in Cebu and Bohol urged the people to stay outdoors since the aftershocks continued.

They were also checking reports of damage on buildings and infrastructure due to the earthquake, the strongest to hit Cebu since Feb. 6, 2012 when a magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit Cebu and Negros islands.

Three vehicles were also damaged after these were hit by debris from the fourth floor of GMC Building in downtown Cebu City.

Several buildings also sustained cracks. Cebu City officials urged gasoline stations to close shop until these were checked and cleared of cracks.

In Tubigon town, Bohol, troops from the Philippine Army were assisting residents to evacuate. They were gathered a the open ground in Mater Dei College for safety.

Reports said that the public market of Tubigon was damaged while several houses were either destroyed or damaged.

Gladys Ytac, a resident of Tubigon, said they headed to the mountain area after receiving reports of strong waves in the area.

She said they were advised to stay in Mater Dei College open ground but police officers informed them to transfer to higher grounds due to the strong waves. With reports from Nestor P. Burgos Jr., Carmel Matus, Carine Asutilla and Chito O. Aragon, Inquirer Visayas

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