Devastating Earthquake Hits Northern Cebu, Resulting in Extensive Damage to Livestock and Veterinary Facilities

A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck northern Cebu on September 30th has caused widespread destruction to livestock and veterinary facilities, with estimated total losses amounting to P170,955,100. The Provincial Veterinary Office reported that the quake affected several local government units, including Bogo City, San Remigio, Tabuelan, Sogod, Borbon, Tabogon, Medellin, and Daanbantayan. Animal shelters, slaughterhouses, feed storage areas, and backyard pens were damaged, resulting in livestock deaths and disruptions in feed and water supply. The municipality of Tabogon sustained the most severe losses, amounting to P154 million.

Key Takeaways:

  • The magnitude 6.9 earthquake on September 30 caused extensive damage to livestock and veterinary facilities in northern Cebu, with estimated total losses of P170,955,100.
  • The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) reported that animal shelters, slaughterhouses, feed storage areas, and backyard pens were damaged, resulting in livestock deaths and disruptions in feed and water supply.
  • The municipality of Tabogon sustained the most severe losses, amounting to P154 million, after a large sinkhole destroyed livestock structures and disrupted agricultural activities.
  • Other areas in northern Cebu, including Bogo City, San Remigio, and Daanbantayan, reported significant losses, with estimated damages ranging from P1.51 million to P6.27 million.
  • The Provincial Veterinary Earthquake Response and Recovery Framework was activated to address the crisis, focusing on the rescue and evacuation of animals, emergency feed and water provision, and veterinary medical assistance.
  • During the emergency response phase (0-72 hours), the PVO coordinated with local government units, the DRRMOs, and other stakeholders to rescue trapped animals and establish temporary holding areas for livestock.
  • The Provincial Veterinary Office emphasized a 'One Health Approach', linking animal, human, and environmental health interventions to strengthen resilience against future disasters.

Statistics:

  • Total losses estimated at P170,955,100.
  • 470,387 heads of livestock and poultry affected, including:

+ 41,195 swine

+ 13,598 cattle

+ 3,304 carabaos

+ 30,410 goats

+ 381,880 poultry

  • Total damage to livestock and poultry housing:

+ P154 million (Tabogon)

+ P6.27 million (Bogo City)

+ P5.93 million (San Remigio)

+ P1.51 million (Daanbantayan)

+ P1.42 million (Borbon)

+ P560,000 (Medellin)

+ P107,870 (Sogod)

+ P315,000 (Madrilejos)

+ P750,000 (Catmon)

+ P39,000 (Tabuelan)

Sources:

  • Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO)
  • Provincial Government of Cebu
  • National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)
  • Philippine Veterinary Information
  • World Organization for Animal Health (OIE)