A staggering magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck off the coast of southern Philippines early Friday, with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issuing warnings of aftershocks and potential damage. The Washington Post Reuters
The quake’s epicenter was located in waters near Manay, Davao Oriental, with a depth of approximately 20–23 km. Reuters AP News
🌀 Tsunami Alerts Across Region
Immediately following the quake, tsunami warnings were issued for parts of the Philippines, Indonesia’s northern Sulawesi and Papua, and Palau. Waves of 1 to 3 meters above normal tide levels were considered possible. Reuters AP News
Later, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) revised the threat downward and lifted alerts after monitoring indicated no major waves had formed. Reuters+1
⚠️ Casualties and Damage Reported
At least two people were confirmed killed in Mati City, Davao Oriental, according to regional civil defense officials. Reuters
Other reports, such as from AP News, suggest a higher toll—with five confirmed dead, along with landslides and broader structural damage to schools, hospitals, and bridges. AP News
Damage was also reported to roads, buildings, and infrastructure across affected provinces. AP News Reuters
⏳ Aftershocks & Regional Vulnerability
Residents were warned to expect aftershocks for days following the initial quake. Reuters
This seismic event follows just 10 days after a magnitude 6.9 quake in Cebu that already strained local disaster response efforts. Reuters AP News
Because the Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, it frequently experiences strong quakes and volcanic activity, making it one of the world’s most seismically active zones. The Washington Post Reuters
