Deadly quake hits Philippines

(Vatican Radio) An earthquake in the Philippines early Tuesday morning has left at least 32 people dead. It struck in the central region, near Cebu City. The quake measured 7.2. It struck in the early morning local time, destroying many buildings including shops and a fishing port, and a market, whose roof fell in.

Many buildings were left standing but, with deep cracks in their walls, were too dangerous to enter.

Many survivors were injured by falling debris. A local official said some clinics evacuated their patients, moving them outside into open spaces such as basketball courts.

Several churches are reported to be among the buildings destroyed, including the historic Santo Nino church in Cebu.

Rescue efforts are underway. A local military commander said he was sending soldiers to help relief efforts. He said a local port is damaged and the quake left cracks in the runway at the main international airport in Cebu, but he said planes may be able to land elsewhere.

One official at the Cebu mayor's office said it is fortunate that Tuesday was a public holiday—the Muslim festival of Eid-al-adha—which means fewer people were at work when the quake struck, perhaps resulting in fewer casualties.

Listen to the report by Alastair Wanklyn: