Parishioners in Porac flock to damaged Santa Catalina de Alejandria Church

Churchgoers on Tuesday gathered in front of the Santa Catalina de Alejandria Church in Porac, Pampanga that was damaged by the magnitude 6.1 earthquake that struck Luzon.

According to GMA reporter Raffy Tima, residents prayed for the victims of the quake and thanked God for "sparing the town from bigger devastation."

24 hours after the quake, churchgoers flock to the Santa Catalina de Alejandria Church in Porac Pampanga to pray for those who perished and were affected and likewise give thanks for sparing the town from a bigger devastation. pic.twitter.com/dib1iLSLKD

— Raffy Tima (@raffytima) April 23, 2019

The bell tower of the church that was built in the 18th century crumbled after the powerful earthquake shook the town.

The once tall belfry of the 18th Century Sta Catalina de Alejandria Parish Church in Porac Pampanga lie in ruins after the 6.1 Magnitude quake yesterday. pic.twitter.com/SiuP0rMP1e

— Raffy Tima (@raffytima) April 23, 2019

Aside from the damaged church, several people were trapped inside a supermarket.

At least 16 people died, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council—12 of which were reported in Porac. — Dona Magsino/BAP, GMA News