CEBU CITY, Philippines — Residents in northern Cebu are struggling after the magnitude 6.9 earthquake on September 30 left many families without safe homes.
In Pandan Mahawak, Medellin town, some families are sleeping inside large plastic bags to shield themselves from the rain.
 |
| Photo courtesy: Facebook/Arg De Real |
The situation worsened on October 1 when a heavy downpour struck, and photos of families huddled in plastic went viral.
Authorities have urged residents to remain outside buildings as continuous aftershocks make it unsafe to stay indoors.
One of those who endured the night outside is Facebook user Arg De Real, who shared photos of their group.
“Wala me ni-evacuate sa center since layo me. Din pag linog kay automatic nag-blackout, so our plan kay mo-saka mig bukid para safe sa tsunami,” she told CDN Digital.
(We didn’t evacuate to the center since it’s far. When the earthquake happened, there was a blackout, so our plan was to go up the mountain to be safe from a tsunami.)
She explained that although her home was only partially damaged, many of her neighbors completely lost theirs.
“We need water and food, or food that’s ready-to-eat. And if ever there are tents or campaign tents, that’ll do,” she added.
Residents say relief goods and shelter are still lacking as they continue to sleep outdoors.
Plastic bags have become their only shield against cold nights and heavy rains.
The strong aftershocks have made returning indoors too dangerous for families in affected towns.
Local governments, including Cebu City, the Province of Cebu, and Talisay City, have started donation drives.
Communities in northern Cebu continue to appeal for help as they endure both the aftermath of the quake and the rains.
— The Summit Express