Two Major Earthquakes Strike Philippines, Killing at Least 7

A pair of powerful earthquakes struck the southern Philippines in rapid succession. The first, a major 7.4 magnitude tremor, hit offshore of Davao Oriental province on Friday. It was followed hours later by a strong 6.8 magnitude quake in the same region.

The seismic doublet killed at least seven people and caused significant damage. According to the Associated Press, the events triggered landslides and prompted brief tsunami evacuations along coastal communities.

Quake Toll and Immediate Damage

The initial quake was centered at sea near Manay town. It occurred at a depth of 23 kilometers. The Philippine Institute of Seismology and Volcanology confirmed the cause was movement in the Philippine Trench.

Casualties were reported across several areas. Two patients died from heart attacks in a hospital during the first quake. Another victim was killed by falling debris in Mati city.

A landslide in a remote gold-mining village claimed three more lives. Army troops and volunteers rescued several injured people from the site. Hundreds of other residents sustained minor injuries.

Tsunami Warnings and Regional Impact

Authorities issued a tsunami warning for six coastal provinces following the first quake. The alert caused widespread evacuations. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later reported only small waves were detected.

The warning was lifted after about two hours. The second quake reignited fears, but no major tsunami occurred. Seismology chief Teresito Bacolcol told the Associated Press both quakes were separate events on the same fault.

The shaking was intensely felt. “We’ve had earthquakes in the past, but this was the strongest,” said a local disaster officer. Cracks appeared in buildings, including an international airport and a high school.

A Nation Accustomed to Disasters

The Philippines is located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” This makes it highly prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity. The nation is also battered by about twenty typhoons annually.

The recent quakes add to a string of natural disasters. A 6.9 magnitude quake in late September killed dozens in the central Philippines. The government is now assessing damage and preparing relief operations.

The situation remains dynamic. Aftershocks are likely, and structures weakened by the first quake could be further compromised. Rescue teams are on standby to deploy when conditions are deemed safe.

The back-to-back Philippines earthquakes underscore the constant seismic threat facing the archipelago. The events have left communities assessing damage and bracing for ongoing aftershocks as recovery efforts begin.

Thought you’d like to know

When did the Philippines earthquakes happen?

The first 7.4 magnitude quake struck on Friday. The second 6.8 magnitude quake occurred hours later in the same general area.

How many people died in the earthquakes?

At least seven people were killed. The victims included individuals who died from heart attacks, falling debris, and a landslide.

Was there a tsunami after the quakes?

Yes, a tsunami warning was issued and small waves were detected. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed the waves posed no major threat.

What areas were most affected?

The offshore epicenters were near Manay town in Davao Oriental province. Damage and casualties were reported in Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao city.

Why are earthquakes common in the Philippines?

The country sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” This is a highly active seismic zone known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.