Twin earthquakes hit southern Philippines, 8 killed, Tsunami warning issued

The southern Philippines was struck by two powerful offshore earthquakes, resulting in at least seven fatalities and widespread damage.

The first earthquake occurred at 9:43 AM local time near Manay town in Davao Oriental province. It registered a magnitude of 7.4 and a depth of 43 kilometers beneath the ocean. Approximately seven hours later, a second earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck the same region.

The initial quake led to the deaths of at least six people, including three miners who were killed when a gold mining shaft collapsed in Pantukan town. Two hospital patients also died of heart attacks during the tremor. The second earthquake resulted in one additional fatality. The quakes caused significant structural damage, including collapsed buildings, landslides, and power outages. Schools were evacuated, and classes were suspended in affected areas. Over 50 students were hospitalized due to shock or dizziness.

Following the initial quake, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued tsunami warnings for coastal areas, predicting waves higher than one meter. The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center also issued alerts for nearby regions. Minor tsunami waves were observed in parts of the Philippines and Indonesia, but no significant damage was reported.

The region experienced over 800 aftershocks, with at least 31 measuring 4.0 or higher. The strongest aftershock recorded was a magnitude 5.9 tremor.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has assured the public that search and rescue operations are underway. The government is coordinating relief efforts, including damage assessments and the provision of aid to affected communities. This disaster follows a deadly magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu province just 10 days earlier, highlighting the Philippines' vulnerability to seismic activity.

The Philippines, located along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," experiences frequent earthquakes and is particularly susceptible to natural disasters. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge residents to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks.