Baltz Tribunalo of Plan International reports on the magnitude 6.9 earthquake which hit Negros at 11.49am on 6 February.

He reports that the earthquake caused a landslide in Guihulngan, a city of about 100,000 people in Negros Oriental province. As many as 30 houses were buried and dozens of people are still missing. A tsunami alert was generated but then lifted after 2 hours.  Initial assessments estimate that 50-70% of buildings have collapsed or are heavily damaged and aftershocks are still happening.  Weak building structures have exacerbated the damage.  The water supply system is down and electricity is out.

Baltz reports that relief items, containing packed goods, rice, and canned goods, are being distributed and further needs identified.  Shelter is an immediate priority and other requirements include psychosocial support for children, material support such as hygiene kits, repair kits, and household kits, and a longer-term education and health response.

Even a country like Philippines which has learnt to respond to regular disasters faces the challenges of preparedness and reducing risk factors – for example through safer building practices and education.

Find out more:

The Centre for Disaster Preparedness in the Philippines coordinated the GNDR Views from the Frontline activity.  Find out more about their work

Baltz Tribunalo works with Plan International. Find out more about Plan’s work in the Philippines

Latest earthquake updates on news channels:

BBC News update    

CBS News reports