**Strong 6.9 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Central Philippines, Disrupts Miss Asia Pacific Event**
Manila: A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck the central Philippine province late Tuesday night, according to the US Geological Survey. The tremor caused significant disruption during the Miss Asia Pacific International Gala Night event held in Cebu.
A video of the incident quickly surfaced online, capturing the quake rattling the beauty pageant. The footage shows chaos erupting as the earthquake hit, with panic spreading among the models and attendees. Fortunately, all people present at the event are reportedly safe.
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**Casualties and Damage**
Tragically, reports confirmed that at least 31 people lost their lives and several others were injured following the massive earthquake. The epicenter was located about 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo, a coastal city of approximately 90,000 residents in Cebu province. The quake struck at a shallow depth of five kilometers, contributing to the severity of its impact.
Among the casualties, 14 deaths occurred in Cebu. According to The Associated Press, at least 12 residents died after being buried under the debris of collapsed houses. In San Remigio town, a separate wall collapse claimed the lives of five individuals, including three coast guard personnel, a firefighter, and a child.
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**Tsunami Warning Issued**
In response to the earthquake, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology briefly issued a tsunami warning. Authorities advised residents to avoid coastlines in Cebu and nearby provinces Leyte and Biliran due to the potential for waves reaching up to 1 meter (3 feet) in height.
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**Geological Context**
The Philippines is situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a horseshoe-shaped zone known for frequent seismic activity and volcanic eruptions. This location makes the country particularly vulnerable to earthquakes and related natural disasters.
Officials continue to assess the situation and provide assistance to affected communities as rescue and relief efforts are underway.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/philippines-earthquake-miss-asia-pacific-international-event-rattled-in-cebu-after-69-magnitude-quake-hits-southeast-asian-nation-video