News
FMA Communities Struck in Philippine Earthquake
Manila (Philippines)
Manila (Philippines). On October 15, 2013, a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 hit central Philippines where there are five FMA communities. The Sisters were unharmed while the buildings were damaged. As of today, the death toll registered 185 persons. The deadly quake destroyed buildings, bridges and roads, old churches of great artistic-historical values especially in the islands of Bohol and Cebu, the nearest to the epicenter. A sign of Providence was the national holiday which kept the schools and offices closed, thus prevented higher casualties.
No damage was reported by the three communities in the island of Negros Occidental while the two communities of Cebu were not spared. Ceilings collapsed in the elementary school building while the other school buildings (kindergarten, elementary, high school) suffered wall cracks. The technical institute's building was spared. Inside the buildings, furniture and varied stuff were broken.
Authorities have announced that the aftershocks will continue for about a week which so far has registered already more than 800. The Sisters temporarily transferred their sleeping quarters on the ground floor for quick evacuation in case of emergency. In spite of the still ongoing traumatic experience, the Sisters are planning to organize a relief operation to the victims in the island of Bohol, the area which was worst hit.
We assure our Sisters of our prayers so that they may remain strong in faith and be able to overcome this moment of adversity.