DAVAO OCCIDENTAL - A powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit Sarangani, Davao Occidental, on Friday, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The quake occurred at 4:14 p.m., with its epicenter located approximately 30 kilometers south of Sarangani.
According to Philippines News Agency, Phivolcs stated that the quake, originating from tectonic activity, was felt at various intensities across the region. Intensity VIII was recorded in Glan, Saranggani, and General Santos City, South Cotabato. The earthquake also reached Intensity V in Matanao, Davao Del Sur; Maasim and Malapatan in Sarangani; and in several locations in South Cotabato. Intensity IV was felt in numerous areas, including Kidapawan City, Cotabato, Davao City, and Davao Del Sur, among others. Phivolcs has warned that damage is expected and advised the public to be prepared for aftershocks. While there is no immediate tsunami threat based on current sea-level data, Phivolcs cautioned that earthquakes of this magnitude may cause unusual sea-level disturbances near the epicenter in Davao Occidental.