Manila – On October 10, 2025, at 1:43 AM UTC (9:43 AM local time), a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao, Philippines, prompting a tsunami warning for the region. The epicenter was located at 126.64°E, 7.30°N, approximately 62 km from the town of Manay in Davao Oriental, at a shallow depth of 10 km. The quake was followed by a 6.7 magnitude aftershock, intensifying fears of significant damage and loss of life.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued the tsunami warning, urging coastal residents to evacuate to higher ground due to the potential for destructive waves. Initial reports indicate at least six deaths and hundreds injured, with buildings collapsing in Davao City and surrounding areas. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the quake’s magnitude, noting its proximity to densely populated regions, raising concerns about infrastructure damage.

Rescue operations are underway, but heavy rainfall and aftershocks have complicated efforts. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu extended alerts to nearby regions, including Indonesia’s North Sulawesi and Papua provinces. This event marks a tragic escalation in the Philippines’ recent seismic activity, following a 6.9 magnitude quake in Cebu that killed dozens in late September.