A powerful earthquake struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on October 10, triggering tsunami warnings across parts of the Philippines and Indonesia. The quake caused widespread panic in coastal communities and prompted mass evacuations to higher ground.
The earthquake, initially measured at magnitude 7.6 and later revised to 7.4 by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, struck off the coast of Davao Oriental in the Mindanao region. It was recorded at a shallow depth of about 10 kilometers, making it strong enough to cause significant shaking across southern Mindanao and nearby islands.
Authorities warned that tsunami waves exceeding one meter above normal tides could strike coastal areas of the Philippines. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reported that waves between one and three meters were possible along coastlines within 300 kilometers of the epicenter. Indonesia’s geophysics agency also issued tsunami warnings for northern Sulawesi and Papua, though smaller waves were expected there.
Residents in coastal communities were urged to move inland immediately. Local officials reported chaotic scenes as people rushed to safety, with alarms sounding in several towns and cities. Emergency shelters were opened in higher ground areas, and search and rescue teams were placed on standby.
Reports from Davao Oriental and nearby provinces indicated structural damage to buildings, cracked roads, and partial power outages. Some schools and public buildings were evacuated as a precaution. Witnesses described intense shaking that lasted for several seconds, sending people fleeing outdoors.
Hospitals treated dozens of individuals for panic attacks, breathing difficulties, and minor injuries. In several areas, aftershocks were felt, including one measuring 5.9 magnitude. Authorities warned that further aftershocks were likely in the coming hours.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government had mobilized emergency services and military units to assist affected areas. He urged residents to remain calm and follow evacuation instructions, emphasizing that safety was the top priority.
The quake comes just ten days after another deadly earthquake struck Cebu province in central Philippines, killing more than 70 people and injuring hundreds. Experts say the series of quakes highlights the region’s vulnerability as it lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a zone known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity.
By late evening, authorities scaled back tsunami warnings in some areas after sea level monitoring stations recorded only minor fluctuations. However, coastal residents were advised to stay alert until official all-clear messages were issued.
The latest event has renewed calls for improved earthquake preparedness, early warning systems, and stricter building standards in the Philippines, where millions live along fault lines and near the coast.
