Vico Sotto Offers Rescue Teams & Relief Support to Quake-Hit Cebu
VICO SOTTO – As Cebu reels from the destruction brought by Tuesday night’s quake, Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto has reached out with a pledge of support and aid for affected communities.
Cebu province has been placed under a state of calamity after a strong earthquake hit its northern area on Tuesday night, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued Executive Order No. 57 declaring the province under a state of calamity, a move that was later confirmed by the Provincial Board to speed up the release of emergency funds and resources.
Bogo City, one of the hardest-hit locations, also declared a state of calamity through a city resolution. Officials cited the high death toll, widespread destruction of both public facilities and private properties, as well as interruptions to basic services.
“Initial rapid assessment from frontline offices and agencies show unfathomable damage, multiple casualties, displaced residents, and disruption of essential services,” the Bogo City resolution stated.
The 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday, with its epicenter located around 12 miles northeast of Bogo at a shallow depth of three miles, according to authorities. The quake triggered building collapses, causing residents to be trapped under debris.
The Joint Operation Center confirmed at least 53 fatalities, most of whom died after being pinned by falling structures. Of these, 25 were reported in Bogo City, while additional deaths were recorded in San Remigio. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as teams continue to search for survivors.
Amid the crisis, assistance has begun arriving from outside Cebu. Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto reached out to Governor Baricuatro to extend support.
“Hi Gov Pam, I know this is a difficult time for Cebu. Sending our prayers and support. Pasig LGU is willing to help,” Sotto said in a message.
Pasig City pledged to provide aid based on the province’s immediate needs. This includes rescue teams with equipment, medical and psychosocial experts, infrastructure assessment groups, and specialists in handling the missing and deceased. In addition, Mayor Sotto announced that financial assistance will be given to the Cebu provincial government and Bogo City to bolster recovery and relief operations.
READ ALSO: Cebu Earthquake, Taal Eruption, Paolo PH Happen Within 12 Hours In Philippines