Deadly Earthquakes Rattle Southern Philippines, Trigger Tsunami Scare

On October 10, 2025, two powerful offshore earthquakes struck the southern Philippines in quick succession, causing significant damage and loss of life. The first quake, measuring 7.4 magnitude, occurred around 2:00 PM local time and was centered about 27 miles east of Manay town. It triggered landslides, killed at least 7 people, and prompted evacuations of coastal areas due to a brief tsunami warning.

Just hours later, a second 6.8 magnitude quake struck the same region, also caused by movement in the Philippine Trench. This second tremor sparked another local tsunami warning, and authorities feared it could further weaken or collapse structures already undermined by the first quake.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said rescue and relief efforts were being prepared, though deployment would only happen once it was deemed safe. The quakes damaged several buildings, including an international airport in Davao City, which remained operational. Thousands of residents, including schoolchildren, were evacuated as a precaution.

The Philippines is no stranger to natural disasters, having faced a deadly 6.9 magnitude quake just last month and frequent typhoons. Disaster response remains a major challenge for the government and volunteer groups in this earthquake-prone archipelago.