Massive 7.2 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Near Mindanao Peninsula in Philippines: Tsunami Alert Issued, Coastal Areas at Risk

Massive 7.2 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Near Mindanao Peninsula in Philippines: Tsunami Alert Issued, Coastal Areas at Risk

An earthquake of magnitude 7.2 struck the sea near the Mindanao peninsula of the Philippines on the morning of October 10, 2025, triggering a threat of tsunami waves in coastal areas. According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, posing a risk of 1-3 meter high waves. Philippines' Philvolcs issued an alert for Mindanao, Visayas, and some coastal areas of Indonesia, directing people to move to higher ground.

Earthquake Details:

The earthquake occurred at 9:43 AM (local time) in the sea near the city of Mati in Davao Oriental, Mindanao, which is 950 kilometers away from Kyiv. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre reported its magnitude as 7.4, while Philvolcs estimated it at 7.6. The depth of the earthquake was reported to be between 10 and 58 kilometers, making it dangerous. The tsunami alert predicted waves exceeding 1 meter, which could reach Indonesia and Palau.

The Philippines, located on the Ring of Fire, remains prone to earthquakes. This earthquake is the most dangerous since the 7.2 magnitude Bohol earthquake in 2013 (which killed 222 people), coming after recent storms. Buildings began to shake in Davao City, and people rushed out into the streets. Governor Edwin Jubahib said: "Buildings have been damaged, people are panicked."

Relief Operations:

Philvolcs ordered people to move to higher ground, while the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council directed the evacuation of coastal areas. President Ferdinand Marcos announced immediate aid, and the military is engaged in rescue operations. The international community has also offered assistance.

"Our preparation is complete, the safety of the public is our top priority." — Ferdinand Marcos

References:

Reuters, CNN, Al Jazeera, BBC, Times of India, X Post