Phivolcs issues tsunami warning after powerful 6.9-magnitude aftershock

THE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a tsunami warning on Friday night after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck offshore Davao Oriental at 7:12 p.m.

The earthquake, which had a depth of 10 kilometers and was located at 07.04°N, 126.91°E, was strong enough to trigger warnings for potential unusual sea level changes along coastal areas facing the Pacific Ocean.

Residents in the provinces of Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and nearby areas were advised to move to higher ground and stay away from the shorelines until the advisory is lifted.

Phivolcs said that while no immediate reports of damage were received, aftershocks are expected. The agency continues to monitor sea level activity and coordinate with local disaster officials for possible evacuation measures.

Authorities reminded the public not to return to coastal areas until further notice, as minor sea disturbances could still pose risks. The earthquake was felt across several parts of Mindanao, including Davao City, Bislig, and other nearby provinces, with Intensity IV shaking reported in some areas.