Hopes fade in Colombia as more bodies recovered after quake

Following a 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia five days prior, the hope of finding survivors diminished on Saturday. The disaster had claimed at least 294 lives, with 320 still missing and nearly 4,000 more injured, according to Colombia's disaster management unit. The earthquake struck in San Jose del Palmar, toppling buildings and damaging infrastructure from Buenaventura to the coffee-growing region and major cities.

Over two-thirds of the fatalities were concentrated in Cali and Pereira. Rescue workers continued their efforts to search for the unaccounted for, while others cleaned their neighborhoods. With nearly 2 million inhabitants, Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, remained a focal point for rescue operations. Efforts were focused on recovery and rebuilding, as people slept outdoors due to the loss of homes.

The deaths of national symbols like Daniela Largo and Juan Felipe Giraldo further dampened hopes. President Abelardo De La Espriella, a political newcomer, faced criticism over his initial response and has since requested the US temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian goods to aid in rebuilding.