A powerful earthquake, registering 7.5 on the Richter scale, has shaken the southern Philippines, leading to widespread panic and forcing thousands to evacuate into the streets. The tremors were felt across Mindanao, with dramatic videos circulating on social media depicting terrified residents fleeing buildings and seeking safety amidst the shaking.
Footage from inside an office or restaurant shows the chaos as boxes fell, lights swayed violently, and the power intermittently failed, while employees scrambled to find shelter under tables to protect themselves from falling debris. While HT.com could not independently verify the video, it vividly captures the fear experienced during the event.
Another video reportedly from Davao city captures the harrowing moments when schoolchildren, screaming in fear, clung to each other in their classroom as it violently shook. They quickly ducked under their chairs in a desperate bid for safety.
Earthquake Details and Safety Warnings
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) initially reported the earthquake at a depth of 62 kilometers, but later revised it to an offshore strike near Manay town in Davao Oriental. The Philippines’ own seismological agency, Phivolcs, confirmed the 7.5 magnitude quake, stating it occurred at a depth of 20 kilometers.
Following the tremor, officials issued immediate warnings about potential damage and aftershocks. A tsunami alert was also declared, advising coastal communities to evacuate to higher ground as a precautionary measure.
Presidential Response and Rescue Efforts
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that the government has mobilized emergency teams and pledged swift assistance to those affected. He assured the public that efforts are underway to ensure help reaches everyone in need.
In Davao city, which is located near the epicenter and has a population of over 5.4 million, schools were promptly evacuated. Authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the impact and preparing for search and rescue operations.
Tsunami Threat Assessed
Initial warnings of a “destructive tsunami” had raised concerns about waves potentially exceeding one meter. Phivolcs had indicated that enclosed bays and straits might experience even higher surges, with the first waves expected between 9:43 and 11:43 local time.
However, by late evening, the tsunami threat for the Philippines had reportedly passed. Neighboring Indonesia also issued tsunami alerts for North Sulawesi and Papua, anticipating waves of up to 50 centimeters.