Two powerful earthquakes struck Davao Oriental on Friday, shaking parts of Mindanao and alarming residents across nearby provinces, authorities confirmed Saturday morning.
The first quake, recorded at magnitude 7.4, hit early morning off Manay, Davao Oriental, prompting tsunami warnings and widespread tremors across the region.
Hours later, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck near the same area, causing confusion as many believed it was a strong aftershock event.
However, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) clarified that the evening quake came from a different fault segment of the Philippine Trench.
Experts described the twin quakes as a “doublet earthquake,” meaning two strong quakes occurred closely in time and location but involved separate fault movements.
According to PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol, both tremors originated offshore, and monitoring continues for possible aftershocks or secondary hazards.
Local officials in Davao Oriental immediately conducted safety inspections in affected barangays, checking roads, schools, and public infrastructure for cracks and potential risks.
Residents reported aftershocks overnight, but no major damage or casualties were confirmed as authorities intensified rapid assessment and coordination efforts.
Disaster response teams urged communities to remain alert, follow official advisories, and avoid spreading misinformation that could cause unnecessary panic and confusion.
PHIVOLCS reminded the public that Mindanao lies near active subduction zones, emphasizing continuous preparedness for possible future seismic activities in the region.
