Philippine earthquake toll rises to 156

The death toll in a powerful earthquake Tuesday morning in central Philippines has risen to 156, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Thursday.

According to the state agency, 144 people perished in Bohol, the epicentre of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake, whereas 11 people from Cebu and one from Siquijor are dead, reports Xinhua.

Around 374 people are injured, and 9,000 families have been displaced, reports said. Most of the displaced families were housed in 61 evacuation centres.

Initial estimate of the damages of roads, bridges and flood control in Bohol and Cebu amounted to $1.7 million.