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Cebu, Philippines Declares State of Calamity Following Devastating Earthquake, Disrupting Tourism and Infrastructure
On 30th September 2025, a 6.9 magnitude earthquake rocked the central Philippine province of Cebu and surrounding areas. The tremor, one of the strongest to strike the region in recent years, has left behind widespread destruction. The quake comes on the heels of two consecutive natural disasters—the deadly Tropical Storm Bualoi and Typhoon Ragasa—which devastated the country just days before. These multiple crises have compounded the challenges faced by local communities and tourists alike.
The earthquake led to significant damage to both cultural and tourism landmarks, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of tourists and affecting the livelihoods of thousands in the tourism sector. The authorities have been quick to issue warnings and provide support, but the path to recovery is expected to be long and complex. This article highlights the ongoing situation, the steps being taken to support affected communities, and the impact on the local tourism industry.
Widespread Damage to Tourism Landmarks
The earthquake caused extensive damage to several important tourism sites across Cebu, Cebu City, and Bohol. Prominent landmarks such as the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan, the Medellin Tourist Rest Area, and Kota Park in Madridejos were heavily affected. Additionally, cultural sites like the San Isidro Labrador Church in Tabogon and the National Museum of the Philippines in Bohol have also sustained significant damage. Many of these sites are pillars of the local tourism industry, drawing thousands of visitors annually, and their closure is expected to have a lasting impact on the region’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Authorities have been quick to update the public on the status of these sites. Regular advisories are being posted on the Department of Tourism (DOT) Facebook page, which provides essential information for both locals and international visitors. As of now, several of these landmarks are temporarily closed for repairs, while others are facing the possibility of permanent damage. The impact on local businesses, which rely on these attractions for tourist traffic, is profound.
Thousands Affected and Tourism Workers Impacted
The tourism workforce, already grappling with the aftereffects of the earlier storms, has been severely impacted by the earthquake. Over 700 workers in the tourism sector, including those in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and travel agencies, are reported to have been affected. The damage to key tourist infrastructure has disrupted their livelihoods, with many businesses now forced to close their doors until further notice.
Tourists stranded in the affected areas have been assisted by local authorities, though the situation remains fluid. The Department of Tourism is working with relevant agencies to ensure that displaced visitors are given the necessary support, including temporary accommodation and transportation. As infrastructure repairs continue, authorities are advising all travellers to remain alert and follow local advisories. Mobility in the region is significantly disrupted, with ongoing challenges in reaching key destinations.
State of Calamity Declared for Cebu Province
In response to the widespread devastation, a State of Calamity has been declared across Cebu province. This declaration unlocks a series of emergency measures designed to assist affected communities and facilitate recovery. The declaration allows local authorities to implement price caps on essential goods, control hoarding and profiteering, and reallocate funds for the repair of infrastructure. Additionally, low-interest loans are being made available to residents in affected areas to support their immediate needs.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has issued multiple warnings for aftershocks and landslide risks, urging all residents to adhere to safety protocols, including the widely recognised “drop, cover, and hold” procedure. These safety measures are vital, as the region is known for its vulnerability to landslides, especially in the wake of seismic events.
Widespread Infrastructure Damage and Continued Risks
The earthquake’s destructive force has not only damaged tourism sites but also devastated the region’s infrastructure. As of 2 October 2025, more than 171,000 individuals have been affected by the earthquake, and approximately 20,000 people have been displaced from their homes. Region VII, which includes Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, continues to experience significant communication disruptions. Several roads and bridges have been rendered impassable, further complicating relief efforts.
Adding to the challenge, two landslides, a fire, and an ammonia leak have been reported, exacerbating the risks faced by both residents and rescue teams. Power outages are widespread, with 85 cities across the region experiencing power cuts, complicating efforts to restore essential services.
In addition to the ongoing aftershocks, the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters has led to heightened fears of landslides in mountainous areas and flooding in coastal regions. This makes the recovery process even more difficult, as authorities are working tirelessly to stabilise affected areas and ensure the safety of the public.
The Philippines and its Position on the “Ring of Fire”
The Philippines is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region renowned for its high levels of volcanic and seismic activity. This geographical feature makes the country highly susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and the recent quake is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by the country’s location.
While the region has experienced natural disasters for centuries, the response from local authorities and disaster preparedness agencies has been strengthened over time. Despite the ongoing risks, efforts to rebuild and recover are being mobilised at an impressive scale, with local government units, national agencies, and international partners providing resources and expertise to assist those in need.
Looking Ahead: Recovery and Tourism’s Resilience
In Cebu and Bohol, the healing process will be drawn out and difficult. But in order to restore what has been lost, the area’s resiliency and the assistance of the travel and tourism sector are essential. The local tourism industry will recover, the Department of Tourism continues to stress, even though some sites might require months to repair. Government-led programs, such as financial aid and infrastructure repair initiatives, are providing assistance to impacted communities in the interim.
As transportation routes are reopened and attractions are restored, a gradual recovery in tourism is anticipated. Since the earthquake directly impacts the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos, it has brought attention to the significance of disaster preparedness for both local government and the tourism sector.
In conclusion, the region’s tourism infrastructure has suffered greatly as a result of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu and Bohol. The Filipino people’s tenacity and the backing of the government and international organisations will be essential as recovery efforts proceed to guarantee that the area regains its former tourism splendour.
The post Cebu, Philippines Declares State of Calamity Following Devastating Earthquake, Disrupting Tourism and Infrastructure appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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