6.7-magnitude earthquake hits off Davao Oriental, tremors felt across Mindanao

Dubai: A strong magnitude-6.7 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Wednesday morning, sending tremors across various parts of Mindanao, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

Phivolcs reported that the tectonic quake occurred at 11.02am (local time), with its epicentre located approximately 47km south-southeast of the municipality of Manay.

The earthquake struck just outside Davao City, a bustling metropolis with nearly 2 million residents.

Official data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) refined these details, confirming a magnitude of 6.4 (mww) at a location 16 kilometers east-southeast of Baculin, Philippines, at coordinates 7.390°N, 126.722°E.

The depth was measured at 35.0 kilometers, and the event timestamped at 03:02:56 UTC (11:02:56 am local time).

USGS assessments indicated minimal expected impacts, with a GREEN PAGER alert suggesting low probabilities of fatalities or economic losses.

ShakeMap data showed intensities up to VI (strong shaking) in nearby areas, but no significant ground failure from landslides or liquefaction was anticipated.

Importantly, no tsunami warnings were issued.

Local news outlets echoed these reports. While some sources, including initial wire reports, cited a higher magnitude of 6.7 at a shallower depth of 10 kilometers, the lower USGS data of 6.4 represents the revised and authoritative measurement.

No immediate reports of damage or injuries surfaced, though residents in Davao and surrounding areas likely felt strong tremors, prompting precautionary measures.

The tremor was felt at varying strengths in neighbouring provinces.

According to the Phivolcs bulletin, Davao City recorded Intensity II, while instrumental intensity level IV was logged in Malungon, Sarangani.

Phivolcs has cautioned the public to remain vigilant as the movement is expected to generate aftershocks.

While the agency noted that damage is possible given the magnitude of the quake, local disaster risk reduction and management offices are still conducting assessments of coastal and urban infrastructure.