APD | Seven deaths reported as strong tremblor hits Luzon

By APD writer Melo M. Acuña

MANILA, April 23, (APD) – Seven persons were reported dead with 81 others injured while 24 others have remained mission as the 6.1 Magnitude earthquake shook Metro Manila and Central Luzon yesterday. This was the latest information released at 8:00 A.M. today by the government’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRMMC).

The earthquake also triggered a landslide at Mt. Bimmukel I San Marcelino, Zambales forcing 120 families to temporary settle in a safer place.

Over in Malacañang, Presidential Spokesperson and Chief Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, heeding the recommendation of the NDRRMC and in order to unclog the load of the public transport system, suspended work in government offices today.

The approach in Consuelo Bridge in Floridablanca, Pampanga suffered severe damage. (DPWH Photo)

He added President Rodrigo Duterte directed local government units affected the quake to assess the damage and take necessary measures to ensure public safety. Secretary Panelo further said government agencies have already responded and assisted quake-affected areas.

Work in government offices and classes in schools in Zambales, Nueva Ecija and Pampanga have also been suspended. The work and class suspensions would allow government agencies to inspection of all possible damages to existing structures.

Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar in file photo. /Melo M. Acuna

Meanwhile, Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar said 15 public and private properties have been damaged by the strong earthquake in the provinces of Pampanga, Zambales and Bataan.

Three minor roads have been closed although one could accommodate light vehicles.

The Department of Foreign Affairs reported that their regional consular offices will remain closed today in Metro Manila, including the main consular office at ASEAN Complex and the six offices located at shopping malls and in San Fernando and Angeles Cities in Pampanga.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)