Philippine earthquake toll rises to 156

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.u00a0