What Actions Is the Philippine President Taking After the Major Earthquake?
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Synopsis
In the wake of a powerful earthquake off Davao Oriental, President Marcos has taken swift action to ensure public safety. With tsunami alerts in effect, evacuations are underway as the nation responds to this natural disaster. Stay informed about the developments as search and rescue operations gear up.
Key Takeaways
- Immediate evacuations ordered in coastal areas.
- Tsunami warnings issued for Mindanao and central provinces.
- Search and rescue operations are being prepared.
- The earthquake's magnitude has been adjusted to 7.4.
- Two fatalities reported due to the earthquake.
Manila, Oct 10 (NationPress) Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos has instructed government agencies to swiftly evacuate individuals in coastal regions at risk of a tsunami following a significant earthquake off the coast of Davao Oriental province in the southern Philippines on Friday morning.
In his statement, Marcos urged citizens to remain vigilant and calm, advising them to "seek higher ground and avoid the shoreline until it is deemed safe by authorities.
"I have ordered the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defence, the Armed Forces, the Philippine Coast Guard, and other relevant agencies to promptly execute evacuations in coastal areas, activate emergency communication channels, and collaborate closely with local governments," he stated.
The President noted that search, rescue, and relief operations are being organized and will commence as soon as conditions permit.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has adjusted the magnitude of the offshore earthquake from 7.6 to 7.4.
According to a recent bulletin, the quake occurred at 9:43 A.M. local time (0143 GMT), with a depth of 23 kilometers, approximately 43 kilometers northeast of the municipality of Manay.
The institute also issued a tsunami warning for coastal regions in Mindanao and at least three central Philippine provinces.
"These waves may persist for hours," the alert indicated, urging residents in coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground or move further inland.
Many users on social media shared their experiences and emotions related to the earthquake. Images depicted a portion of a shopping mall that collapsed in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, with debris falling onto several parked vehicles.
The Davao International Airport reported damage due to the earthquake, as reported by local media, including Xinhua news agency.
Local reports mentioned two fatalities: a man from Mati City in Davao Oriental province, who was reportedly crushed by a collapsing wall in his home, and another individual buried in a landslide in Pantukan town in Davao de Oro province.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the people of the Philippines during this challenging time. The government's rapid response to the earthquake reflects its commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness. We will continue to provide accurate and timely updates as the situation evolves.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What magnitude was the earthquake that struck Davao Oriental?
The earthquake was initially reported as a magnitude 7.6 but has since been downgraded to 7.4 by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.
What actions is the Philippine government taking in response to the earthquake?
The Philippine government has ordered evacuations in coastal areas, activated emergency communication, and is preparing search and rescue operations.
How deep was the earthquake?
The earthquake struck at a depth of 23 kilometers.
What areas are under tsunami warning?
Tsunami warnings have been issued for coastal areas in Mindanao and at least three central Philippine provinces.
Are there any reported fatalities from the earthquake?
Yes, local media reports indicate two fatalities: one individual was crushed by a wall, and another was buried in a landslide.
