At least 85 killed after magnitude 7.2 earthquake hits central Philippines
At least 85 people have been killed in the central Philippines when a 7.2 magnitude earthquake ripped through the area, destroying buildings and roads and triggering terrified stampedes.
At least 15 people died in Cebu, according to the National Disaster Agency, with some killed when they became involved in a crush as people rushed out of homes and buildings, including hospitals, as aftershocks continued.
Most of the deaths were on the neighbouring island of Bohol, which is close to the epicentre of the quake, with 69 confirmed fatalities so far.
Authorities say that the death toll could yet rise, but lives may have been saved by the fact offices and schools were closed for a national holiday.
Rescue teams are still assessing damage to the worst affected area Bohol as roads have been made impassable and the power was cut.
There have been no reports so far of any foreign tourists being killed in the quake.
Philippine! Poor nation
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