World · Philippines Bureau
Twin earthquakes rattle Mindanao, triggering mass evacuations
Two significant earthquakes struck Davao Occidental and Soccsksargen regions Wednesday morning, prompting residents to flee homes and businesses. The tremors, measuring 5.5 and 5.4 magnitude, revived seismic anxieties in communities still recovering from previous major quake activity.
LSN Philippines ·
Residents across Davao Occidental and Soccsksargen provinces rushed into the streets Wednesday as a pair of earthquakes shook the southern Mindanao region within hours of each other. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology recorded a magnitude 5.5 earthquake at 7:43 a.m., followed by a magnitude 5.4 tremor at 9:11 a.m., both affecting Regions 11 and 12.
The successive quakes prompted immediate evacuations from residential areas and commercial establishments in cities including Koronadal. Shopkeepers and homeowners sought safety in open spaces as the ground movements sent tremors through the region.
The seismic events rekindle concerns among residents who remain vigilant following previous major earthquake activity in the area. Local authorities have yet to report significant structural damage or casualties from the morning's tremors. Residents expressed relief that the quakes, while notable, appeared to cause minimal immediate impact.
Geologists continue to monitor the region for aftershocks. The consecutive earthquakes underscore the ongoing seismic activity in Mindanao, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and maintain preparedness protocols in accordance with disaster response guidelines.