Bacolod: The majority of local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental, including this highly urbanized city, suspended classes and government work on Wednesday, following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that jolted Cebu province and was felt across the province on Tuesday night.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Office of Civil Defense-Negros Island Region (OCD-NIR) reported that as of 8:44 a.m., classes have been suspended at all levels in the cities of Victorias, Escalante, Kabankalan, Bago, Sagay, Silay, and Cadiz, as well as in the municipalities of Manapla, Toboso, Murcia, E.B. Magalona, Moises Padilla, Hinoba-an, and San Enrique. Additionally, both classes and government work were cancelled in the cities of Bacolod, Himamaylan, and La Carlota, along with the towns of Isabela, La Castellana, Binalbagan, Calatrava, Hinigaran, Pontevedra, and Don Salvador Benedicto.

In separate announcements via social media, Talisay City declared the suspension of both classes and government work, while San Carlos City announced that classes are suspended in schools with two-story buildings or more. In Bacolod City, where Intensity V tremors were felt, Mayor Greg Gasataya stated that the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has convened to conduct a damage assessment and needs analysis.

Mayor Gasataya issued an executive order declaring the suspension to prioritize safety and welfare, minimizing public exposure to risks and imminent danger. He also urged private establishments and offices to conduct rapid damage assessments to ensure employee safety. In neighboring Talisay City, Mayor Rowena Lizares emphasized that the suspension would allow authorities to inspect buildings and facilities for structural integrity.

In San Carlos City, which also experienced Intensity V tremors, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office has not detected earthquake-induced landslides along the Negros Eco-TransLink Highway. However, motorists were advised to exercise caution. The San Carlos City People’s Park has been closed “until further notice” to enable thorough inspections of all facilities and structures, ensuring visitor safety.