6.9 earthquake devastates Philippines
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PLANAS, PHILIPPINES
All missionaries and Church members are safe following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake, which struck the Philippines island of Negros Monday, Feb. 6, causing severe damage in many villages and communities.
At least 22 people were confirmed dead, with another 82 missing, as a result of the disaster.
Three Church buildings in the area sustained minor damage during the earthquake, according to a Church welfare report. However, there is no damage reported to the temple or surrounding complex in Cebu, Philippines.
In addition, 31 member families are being sheltered in Church meetinghouses, according to the report. A few members have reported minor damage to their homes. Local Church leaders are assisting members affected by the earthquake.
The earthquake triggered landslides in several areas and caused damage to roads, bridges and other infrastructure. The disaster cut off several remote towns because of damage to roads and bridges.
Most of the confirmed deaths were in the small village of Planas where 30 houses were buried under concrete debris. Rescue workers continue to search for survivors throughout the affected area. LDS Welfare personnel are on the ground in the area working with local priesthood leaders, community leaders and other response organizations to provide assistance as needed.
