Manila, 10 October 2025 — A massive 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental at 9:43 a.m. local time, prompting immediate tsunami alerts and widespread evacuations across coastal provinces in the southern Philippines.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the quake was tectonic in origin, with an epicenter located 62 kilometers southeast of Manay town and a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, increasing the likelihood of surface-level impact Philippine News.
Tsunami Threat and Evacuations
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu reported that hazardous waves up to 3 meters (10 feet) above normal tides could affect coastal areas within 300 kilometers of the epicenter. Residents in Davao Oriental, Surigao del Sur, Davao de Oro, and nearby provinces were ordered to evacuate to higher ground or move inland Daily Mail | MSN Mathrubhumi English.
Children were evacuated from schools in Davao City, home to over 5.4 million people, as emergency protocols were activated. Officials warned that tsunami waves could arrive within two hours of the quake, urging communities to remain alert Daily Mail | MSN.
Government Response
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that rescue teams and relief operations were being mobilized, pending safety clearance. The Office of Civil Defense emphasized the need for coastal residents to secure boats and avoid waterfronts until further notice Daily Mail | MSN Euronews (English) | MSN.
No immediate reports of casualties or structural damage have been confirmed, but authorities expect aftershocks and potential infrastructure impact.
Regional Impact
The earthquake’s effects were felt in Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro, and Iligan City, and neighboring countries including Indonesia and Palau issued their own tsunami advisories. Indonesia’s meteorological agency warned residents in Papua and North Sulawesi to stay away from beaches and riverbanks MENAFN.
Outlook
The Philippines, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly prone to seismic activity. This latest quake follows a 6.9 magnitude earthquake in Cebu on 30 September, which killed at least 74 people and displaced thousands.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to follow official advisories and prioritize safety.
Sources:
Philippine NewsPhilNews
Daily Mail | MSNMSN News
Mathrubhumi EnglishMathrubhumi
Euronews (English) | MSNABS-CBN
MENAFNMENAFN
