Death toll due to Abra earthquake at 5, says NDRRMC

The number of fatalities due to the magnitude 7 earthquake that hit Abra has climbed to five, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Thursday.

NDRRMC spokesperson Mark Timbal said the latest reported death came from Ilocos Sur.

“We’re adjusting to five again since we received a new report on an Ilocos Sur fatality. This is subject for verification,” he told reporters in a message.

Based on its 6 a.m. report, NDRRMC said 131 people were hurt due to the earthquake.

A total of 12,945 individuals or 3,456 families in 149 barangays in Cordillera were affected. Around 541 families are staying inside 21 evacuation centers, while 567 individuals or 128 families are staying outside evacuation centers.

On Thursday, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said government assets should be maximized for the search and rescue as well as relief operations in affected areas.

"Mga national government agencies, please coordinate closely with the local government para mamaximize ang mga assets, hindi kayo naguulit, hindi kayo nagkukulang. You plan everything together," he said.

(National government agencies, please coordinate closely with the local government so we can maximize our assets. You plan everything together.)

It was felt strongly in many areas in Luzon, including in Metro Manila. -NB, GMA News