October 10, 2025 – A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook the southern Philippines on Friday morning, causing widespread panic, power outages, and the suspension of classes in affected areas. Authorities issued tsunami warnings, urging residents in coastal towns to evacuate as waves over a meter high were anticipated.
Immediate Impact and Casualties
The earthquake, which struck near Davao City, claimed at least one life and left many residents in shock. Hospitals in the region were overwhelmed, with patients being treated outdoors due to safety concerns. Local media captured scenes of chaos, including swaying power lines and halted traffic as the tremors hit.
Residents and workers in Lupon, Davao Oriental rush to safer grounds as a 7.6 magnitude earthquake jolts the area Friday (Oct. 10, 2025) morning, with the epicenter traced in nearby Manay town. | Che Palicte pic.twitter.com/aLSHf0qnVp
— Philippine News Agency (@pnagovph) October 10, 2025
KEEP SAFE, EVERYONE 🙏
WATCH: Situation at Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao in Davao City during the magnitude 7.5 earthquake recorded in Manay, Davao Oriental, at 9:43 a.m. on Friday, October 10. (Courtesy of John Louie Bagot) pic.twitter.com/YtTRviobgH
— Manila Bulletin News (@manilabulletin) October 10, 2025
A strong #earthquake of magnitude 7.6 struck offshore southern #Philippines on Friday, prompting a #tsunami warning and urgent evacuation orders for coastal communities, authorities said. The quake hit waters off Manay town in Davao Oriental, Mindanao, at a depth of 10 km (6… pic.twitter.com/kgfHhmkk1i
— News9 (@News9Tweets) October 10, 2025
Tsunami Threat and Aftershocks
Although initial warnings of “destructive” tsunami waves were issued, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later confirmed that the threat had passed. However, aftershocks ranging from 2.6 to 4.9 in magnitude continued to rattle the region, keeping residents on edge.
In neighboring Indonesia, minor tsunamis were recorded, with the highest wave reaching 17 centimeters in the Talaud Islands. Local authorities advised residents to stay away from damaged buildings and remain vigilant.
A Nation Under Strain
The Philippines, located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is no stranger to natural disasters. Just over a week ago, a 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck Cebu province, killing 74 people and displacing 80,000. Additionally, a super typhoon last month claimed 11 lives in the northern regions.
Dr. Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), emphasized the need for preparedness. “Filipinos must accept the reality of living in a disaster-prone region,” he stated, urging citizens to focus on readiness rather than panic.
As the Philippines grapples with the aftermath of this latest disaster, the resilience of its people remains evident. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, providing support to affected communities and reinforcing the importance of disaster preparedness.