The provincial government of Cebu has declared a state of calamity following a devastating 6.9 earthquake that killed at least 20 people.
Vice Governor Glenn Soco announced that after meeting with provincial leaders, they ‘officially declared the entire province under a State of Calamity.’
‘This declaration is necessary to give our provincial government the ability to respond quickly and effectively. It allows us to mobilize resources, extend immediate assistance to affected families, and implement rehabilitation measures as we begin our recovery,’ Soco said in a Facebook post.
Soco urged Cebuanos to remain cooperative and vigilant as disaster response continues.
Several other municipalities in Cebu have also declared a state of calamity, including San Remigio and Bogo City.
The earthquake struck the province on Monday night, destroying infrastructure and leaving dozens of casualties.