The United Nations expressed solidarity with the Philippines following the 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Cebu, warning that hospitals in the province are overwhelmed and urgent aid is needed.
Shelter, clean water, and medical access remain top priorities, the UN said.
The World Health Organization, meanwhile, noted that Cebu hospitals attending to more patients than they have capacity for.
‘Hospitals report being overwhelmed with the injured. Our [World Health Organization] Philippines Country Office is there to support the government-led health response in whatever way is needed,’ said Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Western Pacific Regional Director.
Local hospitals were forced to evacuate patients during the quake, further straining healthcare operations.
Piukala said the Philippines and 37 other Western Pacific countries remain highly vulnerable to earthquakes and other disasters, with climate change worsening the risks.
‘Emergency preparedness protocols and mechanisms have been significantly strengthened across our Region in recent years,’ he added.
In a separate statement, the UN offered sympathies to the Philippines after the deadly quake, which came just days after a cyclone.
‘In moments of crisis, unity and compassion are our greatest strengths. The United Nations reaffirms its commitment to stand with the people of the Philippines and to help build back stronger, safer, and more resilient communities,’ the UN said.
Authorities have revised the official death toll from 72 down to 69. At least 559 people were injured and 366,630 others affected. The entire province has been placed under a state of calamity, with thousands still displaced.