A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on Friday morning, leaving at least two people dead, damaging key infrastructure, and sparking mass evacuations amid an initial tsunami warning.
The quake, centered about 27 miles east of Manay in Davao Oriental province, rattled communities and knocked out power across several areas. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology confirmed the quake originated in the Philippine Trench at a depth of 14 miles. Authorities later canceled the tsunami alert but warned residents to brace for aftershocks and further damage.
Local officials reported at least two fatalities after homes collapsed in Davao Oriental. Governor Nelson Dayanghirang Sr. said more than 250 hospital patients were forced to evacuate into emergency tents after the facility sustained structural damage.
Schools and multiple buildings also suffered cracked walls, while an international airport in Davao City reported damage but continued to operate without canceling flights.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that government agencies were assessing the destruction and mobilizing rescue and relief operations, vowing rapid support once it was safe to deploy teams.
Emergency authorities stressed that while the tsunami threat has passed, residents should remain on high alert for aftershocks and avoid unsafe structures.
