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Powerful 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Philippines, Tsunami Fears Emerge

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 struck off the coast of the Philippines‘ Mindanao region on Friday morning, leading to widespread panic and triggering tsunami warnings in the area.
The quake hit around 10 AM local time, just 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the town of Manay in Davao Oriental, according to the United States Geological Survey. Initial reports indicated that at least one person was killed when a fence collapsed on a woman living nearby, while others experienced severe shocks, leading to hospitalizations in the region.
Witnesses in Davao Oriental described chaotic scenes as residents fled buildings in fear. Video footage showed tremors shaking buildings and debris falling as people rushed outside. Local news outlets reported that teachers were seen protecting themselves with chairs as they evacuated.
“I was in a meeting when the whole room started to shake. It felt like forever,” said Christine Sierte, a teacher near the epicenter. “People were terrified and rushed to get outside.”
As a precaution, officials temporarily suspended classes in Iloilo City and other locations, urging students to stay home. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for evacuations in coastal regions and directed emergency teams to be on high alert.
UN agencies are also prepared to assist if requested. Arnaud Peral, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines, stated at a press conference, “We are assessing the situation and are ready to provide support if needed.”
In Indonesia, tsunami alerts were issued for regions including Northern Sulawesi and Papua. Residents were advised to stay alert. As of now, local authorities reported only minor waves and no tsunami impact on their shores.
The earthquake, felt across multiple regions, has added to the Philippines’ struggles with frequent natural disasters, largely due to its location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” “Disaster fatigue is real,” commented Dr. Teresito Bacolol of the Philippines Volcanic Agency. “We must prepare for these realities,” he added, calling for resilience and readiness among citizens.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially warned of dangerous waves, but later lifted the tsunami alert by noon local time. Reports of significant damages, including structural cracks in buildings and a damaged hospital, are still being compiled.
In Davao Oriental, some power outages and slow internet connectivity were reported following the quake. Local disaster officials continue to assess the full extent of the damage. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology also warned that aftershocks, with magnitudes between 2.6 and 4.9, may occur following the main quake.
President Marcos reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring safety, stating, “We are working round the clock to provide assistance. Evacuations are underway, and we urge people to follow official advisories for their safety.”