A STRONG earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 rattled Davao Occidental on Saturday morning, prompting residents to flee their homes and seek safety in the streets.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) initially reported a higher magnitude of 6.9, but later revised the measurement to 6.1.
The tremor, which struck at 7:07 a.m., was centered 85 kilometers southeast of Sarangani town, at a relatively deep depth of 79 kilometers. Phivolcs classified the quake as tectonic in origin, meaning it resulted from the movement of the Earth’s tectonic plates.
While the depth likely mitigated significant surface damage, the intensity of the shaking was still strong enough to cause widespread alarm and prompted evacuations as a precautionary measure.
Despite the initial scare and the strong shaking felt across the region, Phivolcs reported no immediate damage and projected only aftershocks of lesser intensity.
The deep focus of the earthquake likely played a significant role in limiting the extent of any potential destruction. However, authorities are still monitoring the situation closely and urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for possible aftershocks.
The incident serves as a reminder of the Philippines’ location within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Regular earthquake preparedness drills and the maintenance of emergency supplies remain crucial for residents in earthquake-prone areas.
