A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Friday evening, October 10, 2025, marking the second major tremor to hit the region within a single day. The quake, recorded at 7:12 p.m., followed a stronger magnitude 7.4 earthquake that rattled Mindanao earlier in the morning.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the epicenter was located 36 kilometers southeast of Manay, Davao Oriental, with a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The tremor triggered a tsunami warning for coastal areas in Davao Oriental, Surigao del Sur, and Surigao del Norte, prompting immediate evacuations.
Widespread Shaking Across Mindanao
PHIVOLCS reported Intensity IV shaking in Davao City and Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, while instrumental intensities were also detected in Magpet (Cotabato), Digos City (Davao del Sur), Sta. Maria (Davao Occidental), Nabunturan (Davao de Oro), Gingoog City (Misamis Oriental), Malungon and Alabel (Sarangani), Tupi (South Cotabato), and Hinunangan (Southern Leyte).
Residents described the quake as “strong and prolonged,” with reports of falling objects and people rushing out of homes and establishments. The tremor was also felt in nearby cities such as General Santos, Tagum, and Koronadal, where authorities advised caution due to possible aftershocks.
Tsunami Advisory and Evacuations
Following the quake, PHIVOLCS issued a tsunami warning, advising residents in coastal towns to move to higher ground immediately. The agency said forecast tsunami waves could arrive between 7:12 p.m. and 9:12 p.m. Evacuation orders were quickly carried out in several coastal municipalities as emergency response teams were deployed to monitor the situation and assist affected communities.
Earlier Fatality and Ongoing Damage Assessment
At least one fatality was confirmed from the earlier magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the Davao region on Friday morning. Authorities are currently conducting damage assessments amid reports of collapsed structures, power interruptions, and minor landslides in parts of Davao Oriental and neighboring provinces.
PHIVOLCS urged the public to remain alert for aftershocks and to follow updates from official sources. The agency continues to monitor the seismic activity closely as the region experiences a series of strong tremors throughout the day.