A powerful earthquake struck the central Philippines early Tuesday, killing at least 73 people and wounding hundreds more in a popular tourist region.

　　The 7.2-magnitude quake was centered near Bohol Island, where authorities say the majority of the casualties occurred.

　　The quake, and several powerful aftershocks, collapsed buildings, buckled roads, and sent frightened residents rushing out of their homes and businesses.

　　The death toll is expected to climb as the rescue operation continues on Tuesday.

　　Pictures on social media showed extensive damage to shops and roads torn apart by the quake. Witnesses say several of the area's historic buildings suffered major damage.

　　菲律宾中部一处旅游胜地星期二发生强烈地震，至少73人死亡，数百人受伤。

　　这次7点2级的地震震中位于薄荷岛附近。当局说，大部份伤亡事件发生那里。

　　地震和随后发生的几次余震造成房屋倒塌，道路扭曲，惊恐的居民跑到室外躲避。

　　救灾行动星期二在继续，预计死亡人数还会上升。

　　社交媒体上的照片显示，灾区的许多店铺受损，道路断裂。目击者说，该地区一些古老建筑受到严重破坏。