Cebu Police Chief Orders Urgent Inspections After 5.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Bogo
In response to a significant seismic event, Police Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr., the chief of the Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO), has issued a directive for all station commanders in the northern part of the province to conduct immediate and urgent inspections. This order comes after a 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck Bogo City on Monday, April 6, 2026, causing concern over public safety and infrastructure integrity.
Coordination with Disaster Management Authorities
According to Police Major Sam Dacullo, the information officer for the CPPO, the police force has already initiated close coordination with the provincial government and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). This collaborative effort aims to meticulously monitor and assess the extent of structural damage not only in Bogo City but also in the surrounding municipalities. The primary goal is to ensure a swift and effective response to any emerging threats or hazards resulting from the earthquake.
Human Impact and Initial Assessments
The earthquake resulted in minor injuries for six individuals, while three others fainted due to panic. Fortunately, all affected persons received prompt medical attention from on-site personnel, mitigating any serious health consequences. Dacullo acknowledged that the Bogo City Police Station building sustained noticeable damage attributed to the intensity of the tremors. However, as of the latest reports, there has been no directive to deploy additional personnel, as the overall damage across the affected areas is currently considered minimal and manageable.
Structural Concerns in Cebu City
Meanwhile, in Cebu City, the building housing the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) 7 within Camp Sotero Cabahug experienced concerning structural issues. A detached false column at the rear of the building has become loose and poses a dangerous risk of collapsing onto Gorordo Street. In response, Police Lieutenant Colonel Wildemar Tiu, the head of HPG 7, immediately contacted the CDRRMO and the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) to conduct a thorough examination of the situation.
Allegations of Substandard Construction
Upon initial inspection, Tiu raised serious concerns about the construction quality of the column, noting that it appeared to be substandard. He observed that only two bolts were used to secure the column, a detail that he believes deviates significantly from proper engineering standards. Tiu, who has studied civil engineering works, strongly criticized the design, stating, "I have studied civil engineering works... unacceptable design gyud siya," emphasizing that the contractor's approach failed to adhere to necessary safety protocols. This incident highlights broader issues of construction integrity and the need for stringent oversight in building projects to prevent such hazards in the future.
