The Heart of Bungtod Still Beats

Late on the night of September 30, 2025, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck northern Cebu shaking the quiet city of Bogo. The tremor left roads cracked, homes damaged, and people clinging to faith and family. For many, that night would remain carved in memory.

Lights Went Out

In Barangay Bungtod Tangke, Bogo City, Nerie Perez recalls the moment vividly. It was 10:04 in the late evening and she was attending a wake at her cousin’s house when the ground suddenly rumbled. “Pagbarog namo, kalit lang nga nangurog ang yuta ug napalong tanan suga,” she said. She fell to the floor shouting the name of the person in the coffin before calling out for the safety of the children. Despite the shaking, they ran through the darkness desperate to get everyone home.

Night at the School Grounds

Their house stood cracked and strong aftershocks made it unsafe to stay inside. Nerie and her family fled to the City of Bogo Science and Arts Academy, where they spent the night. They did not sleep while comforting frightened children and watching cars sway from side to side as the ground continued to tremble. “Amo gyud gi siguro ang mga bata,” she said while the adults stayed awake till dawn.

No Water, No Electricity, No Help

The morning after, the extent of the damage became clear. Power was out, water refilling stations were destroyed, and basic needs became scarce. “Wala gyud mi tubig, magbahin-bahin ra mi ug gamay nga among makit-an,” she tearfully shared. They tried searching for water in nearby Barangays Dakit and Cayang but found none. Help did not reach them for several days and Nerie felt that only those living near the main roads were being prioritized.

Relief From Family

It was only when Nerie’s niece, Janillee Dela Rama and her fiancé Jeff Ryan Alviva, arrived from Cebu City that relief came. Along with Janillee’s officemates and sponsors, they traveled through heavy traffic from 7 A.M. to 8 P.M. bringing a jeepney and vehicles full of water, food, bread, coffee, and rice. Nerie and her neighbors were moved to tears and greatly surprised and thankful that someone finally reached their secluded barangay. “Na lipay gyud mi. Abi namo walay moanhi,” Nerie said softly.

Picking Up the Pieces

Now, electricity has returned but water remains a problem. Nerie says they still sleep on the ground using cartons and foam as makeshift bedding. Some of the children are still shaken and crying whenever they feel even the slightest tremor. “Luoy kaayo mi, pero pasalamat mi nga buhi pa mi tanan,” she added while holding back tears.

The story of Barangay Bungtod Tangke is one of survival and shared strength. Despite isolation and delay in aid, the people found comfort in each other’s company. In every cracked wall and trembling night, Bogo’s residents continue to stand firm. That even when the ground moves, the spirit of the Cebuanos does not falter.