Manila, Oct. 1 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the swift rollout of relief and rehabilitation efforts in Cebu, after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake rocked the province on Tuesday night.

The directive was issued following reports that the strong earthquake claimed at least 20 lives, injured dozens, damaged heritage churches and other structures, and disrupted power in several parts of the Visayas.

In a statement on Wednesday, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman called on government agencies to activate their Quick Response Funds (QRF), in line with Marcos' directive.

"Our prayers go to the families who lost their loved ones and to all who are enduring this tragedy. In moments like this, government aid must never be delayed,...