Mayor Vico Sotto Sends Message of Solidarity, Promises Aid for Cebu
VICO SOTTO – Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has stepped forward to offer aid and support to Cebu province following the devastating 6.9-magnitude earthquake that claimed dozens of lives.
Cebu province has been placed under a state of calamity after a powerful earthquake struck off its northern coast on Tuesday night, leaving dozens dead and many others injured.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro signed Executive Order No. 57, declaring the entire province under a state of calamity. The measure was later ratified by the Provincial Board to allow quicker release of emergency funds and resources.
Bogo City, one of the worst-hit areas, also passed a separate resolution placing the city under a state of calamity. The local government cited multiple deaths, severe destruction of public and private infrastructure, and disruptions to essential 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 just after 9 p.m. Tuesday, with its epicenter located about 12 miles northeast of Bogo at a shallow depth of three miles, according to authorities. The tremor caused several buildings and structures to collapse, trapping residents under debris.
The Joint Operation Center reported at least 53 fatalities, most of whom were crushed by falling structures. Of these, 25 deaths were recorded in Bogo City, while additional casualties were reported in the nearby town of San Remigio. Rescue operations remain ongoing as emergency teams continue to search for survivors.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, support has begun to pour in from outside Cebu. Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto reached out to Governor Baricuatro, offering assistance to affected communities.
“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 has committed to sending aid depending on the province’s needs, including search and rescue units, medical teams, infrastructure inspectors, specialists for missing persons management, and experts in psychosocial debriefing. Mayor Sotto also announced that financial aid will be provided to the provincial government and Bogo City to support relief and recovery efforts.
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