Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered government agencies to carry out immediate evacuation and relief operations after a powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Friday morning, prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to issue a tsunami warning for several coastal provinces.
“We are now assessing the situation on the ground and ensuring that everyone is safe,” Marcos said in an official statement. “I have directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defense, the Armed Forces, the Philippine Coast Guard, and all concerned agencies to immediately carry out evacuations in coastal areas, activate emergency communication lines, and coordinate closely with local governments.”The quake struck at 9:43 a.m. off the waters of Manay, Davao Oriental, with Phivolcs recording a magnitude of 7.6. The agency warned of “threatening wave heights” and advised residents in coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground.The tsunami warning covered Davao Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar, Leyte, and Dinagat Islands.Marcos said search, rescue, and relief operations were already underway and assured that all government resources were being mobilized for the safety of residents in affected regions.“The Department of Social Welfare and Development is pre-positioning food and non-food items, while the Department of Health is ready to provide emergency medical assistance,” he said.“To our kababayans in the affected regions, please stay alert and calm. Move to higher ground and stay away from the shore until authorities declare it safe,” he added. “Your safety is our top priority.”Phivolcs reported that the quake was felt at Intensity V in Davao City and Intensity IV in Surigao del Sur, warning that damage and aftershocks are expected.Marcos said the government is working “round the clock” to ensure that assistance reaches all affected families.“Let us continue to look out for one another and pray for the safety of all our countrymen,” the President said.
Duterte’s office on standby in Davao region
Vice President Sara Duterte, through the Office of the Vice President – Southern Mindanao Satellite Office (OVP-SMSO), said her team is closely monitoring the situation and ready to assist local government units (LGUs) in relief operations.“We are currently on standby to assist any Local Government Unit in providing relief to evacuees, should the need arise,” Duterte said in a statement.“We urge those affected by the earthquake to seek psychological first aid to helpalleviate anxiety and fear, especially for children who may be more vulnerable. It is also important to ensure that Go Emergency Bags are prepared and accessible, in anticipation of possible aftershocks.”The Vice President also urged the public to remain calm and vigilant while authorities assess tsunami risks.
