At 8:12 AM on October 15, 2013, a 7.2-magnitude (Richter scale) earthquake hit the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. As of this writing, 155 people have been confirmed dead, mostly in the provinces of Bohol and Cebu. Many buildings were destroyed, including several centuries-old historic churches.
The quake was centered about 620 kilometers (385 miles) south-southeast of Manila, near Carmen, Bohol with a depth of 12 miles, and a magnitude of 7.1, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Philippine authorities gave the temblor a slightly higher rating of 7.2 magnitude.
Since we live so far from the epicenter, we didn’t feel the earthquake. But please pray for those who have lost loved ones, homes, properties, and fields. There are many ways in which you can send help, including sending them through your churches.
For more coverage and pictures, go to BBC News or CNN.
Here’s a photo gallery:
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