Deadliest Philippine Quake in 12 Years Kills 69, Rescue Underway

At least 69 people were killed and more than 100 injured after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck central Philippines Tuesday night, flattening buildings, as officials hastened search and rescue efforts.

Most of the deaths happened as people were crushed in their homes or hit by fallen debris, Civil Defense Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV said by phone on Wednesday. “We’re still receiving reports that some villages still need assistance in terms of rescue,” he said in a separate briefing.