The Department of Tourism (DOT) reported its initial assessment on Thursday, October 2, that the September 30 magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu damaged more than 25 tourist destinations and heritage structures across the Visayas.
DOT–Central Visayas identified at least 11 major sites in Cebu Province that sustained partial to heavy damage, including historic churches, parks, and leisure facilities.
The Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan lost 70 to 80 percent of its structure, the San Isidro Labrador Church in Tabogon collapsed at the façade and roof, and the Capelinha de Fatima Replica in San Remigio suffered heavy damage to its statues and structures, the DOT reported.
In Cebu City, authorities closed five cultural sites—Museo Sugbo, National Museum of the Philippines–Cebu, Casa Gorordo, Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, and the Kabilin Center—for safety inspection and repairs.
In Bohol, officials suspended visits to the Hinagdanan Cave in Dauis and the National Museum of the Philippines–Bohol to allow inspections.
The quake also forced temporary closure of at least 10 accommodation establishments in Cebu and northern municipalities.
Resorts such as Pofer Beach Resort, Maayo San Remigio, and Woody’s Beach Resort sustained moderate to severe damage. Nustar in Cebu City evacuated 337 guests after its canopy collapsed and walls cracked.
Other resorts reported lighter damage. Anika Island Resort, Jelly’s Haven, and La Playa Estrella in Bantayan continued operations, while Ogtong Cave Resort shut down after rockfalls.
Outside Cebu, Negros Island Region and Siquijor experienced shaking but reported no major damage to tourist establishments. Murcia town in Negros Occidental recorded the strongest shaking and reported limited damage to vulnerable structures.
DOT said that its regional offices continue to coordinate with local governments, disaster units, and tourism stakeholders to safeguard tourists, extend assistance to establishments, and fast-track the restoration of affected heritage sites and destinations.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a blog on Medium.