Manila, October 10, 2025 — A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern Philippines early Friday, causing structural damage, triggering tsunami warnings, and leaving at least two people dead, officials confirmed.
Quake Details and Epicenter
The tremor was centered about 43 kilometers east of Manay, in the Davao Oriental province of Mindanao, at a depth of roughly 23 kilometers beneath the sea.
Initial readings measured the quake at magnitude 7.6, later revised down to 7.4 by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
Experts attributed the quake to tectonic movement along the Philippine Trench, one of the region’s most active fault zones.
Damage and Casualties
Authorities confirmed two deaths in Mati City, Davao Oriental, where several homes and buildings collapsed. Hospitals, schools, and public offices sustained cracks and minor structural damage.
A local hospital was partially evacuated after sustaining damage, with more than 250 patients moved to temporary tents outside.
Residents in Davao City and nearby areas described the shaking as “violent,” with many rushing into open streets as power lines and walls swayed.
Tsunami Warnings and Response
Following the quake, tsunami alerts were issued for several coastal provinces, prompting thousands of residents to evacuate to higher ground. Neighboring countries, including Indonesia and Palau, also raised precautionary alerts.
Sea monitoring centers later reported only minor fluctuations, and the tsunami warnings were lifted after several hours.
Aftershocks and Ongoing Tremors
Phivolcs recorded over 200 aftershocks, including one of magnitude 5.9, felt strongly across Mindanao. Authorities warned residents to remain cautious as further tremors could occur.
The main quake registered Intensity VI (Very Strong) in Manay and Intensity V (Strong) in Davao City.
Government Action
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered emergency response teams to assist affected communities and directed local governments to assess damage and ensure public safety.
Search-and-rescue operations were launched in Davao Oriental and surrounding areas, with relief supplies and medical assistance being distributed to evacuees.
