By Shane Croucher, John Feng, and Amanda Castro
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A powerful earthquake struck off the coast of the Philippines on Friday, triggering a tsunami warning and prompting evacuations across multiple provinces. The tremor is part of a series of seismic events that have shaken the region in recent days.
What to Know:
- The Philippine seismological agency reported a 6.9-magnitude quake; the USGS recorded it as 6.7.
- Epicenter was located roughly 14 miles east-southeast of Santiago, Mindanao.
- A “life-threatening” tsunami warning was issued for Surigao Del Sur, Davao Oriental, and Surigao Del Norte.
- Residents were strongly advised to evacuate to higher ground or move inland.
- Boat owners were told to secure vessels or remain offshore in deep water.
- The first tsunami waves were expected by 9:12 p.m. local time and could continue for hours.
- The quake follows a larger 7.4-magnitude event that occurred earlier in the week.
- USGS has logged 59 earthquakes of magnitude 2.5+ in the past 24 hours.
- Most aftershocks are concentrated near Santiago, Baculin, Manay, and San Ignacio.
- Additional seismic activity was reported in Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, Russia’s Kuril Islands, and the Banda Sea.
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Oct 10, 2025 at 06:22 PM EDT
Twin earthquakes strike southern Philippines, kill five and trigger tsunami alert: Recap
Two powerful offshore earthquakes struck the southern Philippines within hours of each other on Friday, resulting in fatalities, structural damage, and widespread evacuations. The first quake, a magnitude 7.4, hit near Manay town in Davao Oriental province, killing at least five people and prompting a tsunami warning that was later lifted. Landslides, hospital evacuations, and school damage were reported across the region.
A second quake, preliminarily measured at magnitude 6.9, followed Friday night and was linked to the same fault line—the Philippine Trench. Officials have not confirmed whether it was a separate event or an aftershock.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that damage assessments and relief operations are currently underway. The region is still recovering from a deadly September quake and frequent typhoons, underscoring the Philippines’ vulnerability to natural disasters.
Oct 10, 2025 at 05:19 PM EDT
Understanding aftershocks: What follows a major earthquake
Aftershocks are minor earthquakes that occur in the same region as a larger seismic event, typically caused by minor shifts along the fault line that initially ruptured. While often less intense, these tremors can still pose risks—especially to areas already weakened by the main quake.
According to The New York Times, aftershocks can occur days, weeks, or even years after the initial earthquake. In rare cases, they may match or exceed the original quake’s magnitude, compounding damage and complicating recovery efforts within a 100-mile radius or more.
Oct 10, 2025 at 04:16 PM EDT
Geologists debate boundaries of the ring of fire
While geologists widely agree upon most regions within the Pacific Ring of Fire, several areas remain subject to debate. Indonesia, for example, sits at the intersection of the Ring of Fire and the Alpide belt—a separate east-west volcanic zone stretching through southern Asia and Europe. Some experts include all of Indonesia in the Ring of Fire, while others exclude its western islands, placing them in the Alpide belt.
Similar disagreements exist over the inclusion of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Though some geologists consider them part of the Ring of Fire, others argue that the rest of Antarctica lacks subduction-related volcanism and should be excluded.
Additionally, the Ring of Fire does not extend across the southern Pacific between New Zealand and South America due to divergent plate boundaries in that region. Islands such as Izu, Bonin, and Mariana are also inconsistently classified, with some geologists including them and others excluding them.
These variations reflect ongoing discussions about how to define the limits of one of Earth’s most active tectonic zones.
Oct 10, 2025 at 03:13 PM EDT
Tracing the origins of the Ring of Fire
The term "Ring of Fire" reflects a centuries-old belief, dating back to Ancient Greek and Roman times, that volcanoes were fueled by fire burning within the Earth. Though modern science has disproven this idea, the name persists, symbolizing the fiery imagery long associated with volcanic eruptions.
By the early 19th century, scientists had begun to recognize a belt of volcanic activity encircling the Pacific Ocean. In 1825, volcanologist G.P. Scrope described this chain in his work, and by the mid-1800s, explorers and scholars were referring to the region as a vast circle of volcanic development. Publications like Scientific American and accounts of the Perry Expedition to Japan helped popularize the concept.
In 1912, geologist Patrick Marshall introduced the "Andesite Line," a geological boundary that closely mirrors the Ring of Fire’s path. This line distinguishes volcanic islands by their structure and the composition of their lava.
The modern understanding of the Ring of Fire emerged with the theory of plate tectonics in the 1960s, which explained the region’s intense seismic and volcanic activity as the result of shifting tectonic plates. Today, the Ring of Fire remains one of the most geologically active zones on Earth.
Oct 10, 2025 at 02:10 PM EDT
Calls for increased disaster funding follow Philippine earthquake
In the wake of a recent earthquake, Filipino lawmakers are urging the government to take more decisive action to improve disaster response. Representative Jose Alvarez proposed allocating surplus funds to the 2025 national budget, allowing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to better address future emergencies such as earthquakes, typhoons, and floods.
While institutions like PHIVOLCS and the United Nations continue to enhance early warning systems, Alvarez emphasized the need for direct presidential access to emergency resources. “That’s important in 2026, if we still have more earthquakes,” he told ABS-CBN.
Experts note that the country’s resilience has improved since the 1990s. Geologist Mahar Lagmay Dianala highlighted revisions to the National Building Code, which now require structures to withstand shaking with an intensity of 8. However, he cautioned that enforcement of these standards remains inconsistent.
Frequent seismic activity has prompted policy reforms, but officials emphasize that continued investment and oversight are crucial to safeguard lives and infrastructure.
Oct 10, 2025 at 01:08 PM EDT
Where are the fault lines in the Philippines?
Earthquakes are a daily reality in the Philippines, with over a hundred low-magnitude tremors recorded each day. While most go unnoticed, the country’s location on the Pacific Ring of Fire—a volatile zone of tectonic activity—makes it highly susceptible to powerful and destructive quakes.
The Ring of Fire surrounds much of the Pacific Ocean and is home to numerous oceanic trenches, volcanic arcs, and fault systems. The Philippines sits at the convergence of three major tectonic plates: the Philippine Sea Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the Indo-Australian Plate. Their interactions have created a complex network of fault lines across the archipelago.
One of the most significant is the Philippine Fault Zone (PFZ), a 1,200-kilometer fracture that stretches from Luzon to Mindanao. It includes several active faults such as the Marikina Valley Fault—considered the most dangerous in Metro Manila—and the Guinayangan Fault in Quezon Province. Other notable faults include the Masbate Fault, Eastern and Western Philippine Faults, and the Central Philippine Fault Zone, which spans multiple provinces.
These fault systems are responsible for both minor tremors and major seismic events, including the magnitude 6.6 earthquake that struck Masbate in August 2022. Beyond ground shaking, earthquakes in the region can trigger landslides, tsunamis, and infrastructure collapse, underscoring the importance of preparedness and awareness.
Oct 10, 2025 at 12:28 PM EDT
How strong was the 1990 earthquake in the Philippines?
On July 16, 1990, a massive earthquake struck the island of Luzon in the Philippines, registering a magnitude between 7.7 and 7.8. The tremor, which lasted approximately 45 seconds, had its epicenter near Rizal City in Nueva Ecija province and was felt across the region.
The quake caused catastrophic damage, particularly in the cities of Baguio, Cabanatuan, and Dagupan. More than 1,600 people lost their lives, thousands were injured, and around 100,000 were left homeless. Infrastructure suffered heavily, with collapsed buildings, blocked roads due to landslides, and widespread disruption.
Geologically, the earthquake triggered a 125-kilometer rupture along the Philippine Fault, underscoring the country’s vulnerability to seismic activity. The 1990 Luzon earthquake remains one of the most devastating in Philippine history.
Oct 10, 2025 at 12:06 PM EDT
Where is the Ring of Fire in the Philippines?
The Ring of Fire is a vast tectonic belt encircling much of the Pacific Ocean, known for its intense seismic and volcanic activity. Stretching roughly 40,000 kilometers, it hosts around two-thirds of the planet’s volcanoes and accounts for 90% of all recorded earthquakes, including many of the most powerful.
This region is shaped by the subduction of multiple tectonic plates at convergent boundaries. Key interactions include the Pacific Plate colliding with the North American, Eurasian, and Australian plates, among others. These collisions have formed deep oceanic trenches, volcanic arcs, and complex geological features.
The Ring of Fire has been active for over 35 million years, with hundreds of volcanoes erupting in recorded history. It includes a variety of volcanic types, from explosive stratovolcanoes like Mount St. Helens to submarine seamounts such as Monowai. The area remains one of the most geologically dynamic and hazardous zones on Earth.
Oct 10, 2025 at 11:49 AM EDT
Disaster official: ‘Strongest earthquake I’ve ever felt’
A powerful earthquake struck Southern Philippines, causing significant damage and widespread panic across several provinces. Richie Diuyen, a disaster official in Manay near the epicenter, said the tremor lasted between 30 and 40 seconds, damaging homes, roads, bridges, and the facade of a local church.
“This is the strongest earthquake I’ve ever felt,” Diuyen told Reuters, describing the impact as severe.
In Davao Del Norte, Governor Edwin Jubahib reported panic in the capital city of Tagum, where structural damage to buildings was also confirmed. Students at Bukidnon State University in Malaybalay City evacuated classrooms as the quake hit, and schools across the region were closed as a precaution.
Jun Saavedra, a disaster-mitigation officer in Davao Oriental, recounted seeing powerlines sway violently as the ground shook, leading to a power outage. Residents fled buildings and homes in fear as the quake disrupted daily life.
Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage while emergency services respond to affected areas.
Oct 10, 2025 at 11:30 AM EDT
Deadly earthquake strikes southern Philippines, triggers hospital evacuations
A powerful earthquake in Southern Philippines has claimed at least six lives, including two hospital patients who suffered fatal heart attacks during the tremor, according to Ednar Dayanghirang of the Office of Civil Defense. The quake caused significant damage to infrastructure, prompting urgent evacuations.
In Davao Oriental, Governor Nelson Dayanghirang reported that approximately 250 patients had been relocated from a hospital facility that was compromised. The evacuees are now being sheltered in temporary tents as authorities assess structural safety and continue emergency response efforts.
Oct 10, 2025 at 11:11 AM EDT
How common are earthquakes in the Philippines?
The Philippines experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a volatile zone where several tectonic plates converge. This geological setting makes earthquakes a daily occurrence, with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recording an average of 20 tremors per day. Of these, roughly 100 to 150 are strong enough to be felt each year.
Several factors contribute to the country’s high earthquake risk. The Philippine Fault Zone, which cuts across the archipelago, is one of many active faults responsible for significant seismic events. Additionally, the interaction between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate generates intense tectonic stress, often released as earthquakes.
While most quakes are minor, the Philippines has a history of destructive seismic events. The greatest dangers stem not from the shaking itself but from secondary effects such as building collapses, landslides, and tsunamis. With dense urban populations and vulnerable infrastructure, the country ranks among the top five globally in terms of earthquake risk.
Oct 10, 2025 at 10:52 AM EDT
What to know about Santiago, Philippines’ earthquakes
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Mindanao, Philippines, on Friday morning, killing at least three people and prompting widespread tsunami warnings. The quake, recorded at 9:43 a.m. local time, was followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock hours later, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Authorities warned of potentially life-threatening waves exceeding one meter and urged coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology later reported nondestructive waves and canceled the alert by early afternoon.
Casualties were confirmed in Davao Oriental Province, including a woman killed by a collapsing wall in Mati City and another death in a residential building. A hospital in Manay was evacuated due to structural damage. In Davao City, one fatality and over 300 injuries were reported.
The quake was linked to movement along the Philippine Trench, a deep-sea fault zone located within the Pacific Ring of Fire. Tsunami warnings were also issued for parts of Indonesia. Government offices and schools in several Mindanao cities were suspended as aftershocks continued.
Oct 10, 2025 at 10:39 AM EDT
Aftershocks continue worldwide following major seismic events
The U.S. Geological Survey has recorded 59 earthquakes of magnitude 2.5 or higher in the past 24 hours, with a significant concentration of aftershocks near the eastern coast of the Philippines. These follow a powerful magnitude 7.4 quake that struck near Santiago, triggering a series of tremors ranging from magnitude 4.8 to 6.7 across the region.
Notable seismic activity was also reported in Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, Russia’s Kuril Islands, and the Banda Sea. The Philippines alone experienced over two dozen aftershocks, many clustered around Santiago, Baculin, Manay, and San Ignacio, with depths ranging from 10 to over 80 kilometers.
While most of these quakes occurred offshore, authorities continue to monitor for potential impacts on coastal infrastructure and communities. Emergency services remain on alert as seismic activity persists across multiple fault zones.
Oct 10, 2025 at 10:24 AM EDT
What causes a tsunami and how it spreads
Tsunamis are powerful waves triggered by sudden, large-scale shifts in ocean water. The most common cause is underwater earthquakes that force the seafloor to move vertically, either rising or sinking, which displaces massive volumes of water.
Other natural events can also generate tsunamis. These include underwater or coastal landslides, volcanic eruptions near or beneath the ocean, and—though rare—meteorite impacts. In some cases, extreme weather systems can also contribute to water displacement.
A tsunami typically unfolds as a series of waves, not just a single surge. Importantly, the first wave is often not the largest. Once formed, these waves can travel across entire ocean basins, radiating outward from the point of disturbance and impacting coastlines far from the origin.
Oct 10, 2025 at 10:11 AM EDT
Hospital evacuated in Davao Oriental following earthquake
At least 250 patients were moved from a damaged hospital to temporary tents after a powerful earthquake struck Davao Oriental, according to Governor Nelson Dayanghirang. The evacuation was carried out swiftly to ensure patient safety amid concerns about the structure.
“So far, we have recorded two casualties,” Dayanghirang told NBC, adding that patients were relocated to provincial and district hospitals for continued care. Emergency services remain active in the region as authorities assess damage and coordinate relief efforts.
Oct 10, 2025 at 09:55 AM EDT
IN PICTURES: Devastation following Philippines earthquake
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Oct 10, 2025 at 09:40 AM EDT
What causes earthquakes?
Earthquakes occur when energy stored in the Earth's crust is suddenly released, most commonly due to the movement of tectonic plates. These massive plates shift slowly over time, but when their edges become stuck due to friction, stress builds up. Once that stress exceeds the frictional resistance, the plates abruptly move, sending seismic waves through the ground and causing it to shake.
Volcanic activity can also trigger earthquakes, especially when magma shifts beneath the surface or alters pressure in surrounding rock. In addition, human activities such as mining, fluid injection, and dam construction can disturb underground stress levels, leading to what are known as induced earthquakes. Underground explosions, including nuclear or chemical tests, are another less common source of seismic activity.
Oct 10, 2025 at 09:22 AM EDT
UN pledges support following earthquake in Davao
The United Nations has expressed readiness to assist the Philippine government in response to the recent earthquake that struck Davao. UN agencies are currently assessing the situation to coordinate potential relief efforts.
Arnaud Peral, the UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines, stated, “We just learned about the earthquake in Davao… we stand ready to provide support.” The organization is monitoring developments closely and preparing to mobilize resources if requested by national authorities.
Oct 10, 2025 at 09:06 AM EDT
Philippine volcanic expert urges preparedness amid ongoing natural disasters
As the Philippines continues to face frequent seismic and volcanic activity, Dr. Teresito Bacolol of the national volcanic agency has called for calm and readiness among residents. Positioned along the Pacific Ring of Fire, the country is highly susceptible to earthquakes, eruptions, and typhoons.
Acknowledging widespread disaster fatigue, Bacolol emphasized the importance of resilience. “We understand that Filipinos are now experiencing disaster fatigues... We asked them not to feel fearful,” he said. He urged citizens to embrace preparedness as a way of life, noting, “Instead of panicking, we have to prepare.”
Oct 10, 2025 at 08:57 AM EDT
Chemical spill reported at San Pedro College following earthquake
A chemical spill occurred this morning on the sixth floor of San Pedro College in Davao City, triggered by the recent earthquake that struck the region. Emergency responders from the Bureau of Fire Protection’s Special Rescue Force were deployed to the site and photographed in full protective gear as they assessed and contained the hazard.
Authorities have not yet released details about the type of chemicals involved or any potential health risks. Safety protocols remain in place as the situation is monitored and cleanup operations continue.
Oct 10, 2025 at 08:44 AM EDT
Davao Airport remains operational despite earthquake damage
Following the recent earthquake in the Philippines, structural cracks have been reported in several buildings, including the international airport in Davao City. Despite visible damage, airport operations have continued uninterrupted.
Office of Civil Defense Deputy Administrator Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV confirmed that no flights were canceled and safety assessments are ongoing. Authorities are monitoring affected structures to ensure public safety while maintaining essential services.
Oct 10, 2025 at 08:32 AM EDT
Philippine government mobilizes relief efforts following earthquake
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has assured the public that the Philippine government is responding swiftly to the recent earthquake, pledging that aid will reach affected communities without delay. In a statement posted to Facebook, Marcos said authorities are “working round the clock” to coordinate emergency operations.
He confirmed that search, rescue, and relief teams are being readied for deployment once conditions allow. The Department of Social Welfare and Development is pre-positioning essential supplies, while the Department of Health stands prepared to deliver emergency medical support.
Oct 10, 2025 at 08:20 AM EDT
Aftershock follows latest Philippines earthquake: USGS
The USGS just recorded a strong 4.8 magnitude aftershock around 39 miles east-southeast of Santiago, with a depth of around 26 miles.
It is the 21st earthquake or aftershock recorded in the area by USGS in the past day.
Oct 10, 2025 at 08:16 AM EDT
Philippines disaster agency issues warning after earthquake
The National Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council said in a post on X that "aftershocks and damage are expected" as a result of the latest 6.9 earthquake.
Oct 10, 2025 at 08:03 AM EDT
USGS records large Philippines earthquake
The USGS said the earthquake was 6.7 in magnitude, a little smaller than recorded by seismologists in the Philippines, and occurred around 14 miles east-southeast of Santiago with a depth of around 38 miles.
There were no tsunami warnings issued by the U.S. Tsunami Warning System, which monitors threats to the U.S. coast.
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