Earthquake Alert: Magnitude 7.6 Quake Jolts Davao Oriental, Felt in Southern Leyte

A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental this morning, October 10, 2025, at 9:43 a.m. (PHT). The tremor was widely felt across Mindanao and the Visayas, including Southern Leyte, prompting residents and institutions to evacuate to open areas as a safety precaution.

Epicenter and Earthquake Details

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located 62 kilometers southeast of Manay, Davao Oriental, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers.

Magnitude: 7.6 (PHIVOLCS); 7.4 (USGS)
Origin: Tectonic (caused by crustal fault movement)
Depth: 10 km (shallow, potentially destructive)
Time: 9:43 a.m.
Date: October 10, 2025

Authorities have warned of possible aftershocks and advised the public to remain alert.

Tsunami Warning Issued

Following the quake, PHIVOLCS and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued a tsunami warning for several coastal areas in the southern Philippines, including:

Davao Oriental
Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte
Dinagat Islands
Eastern Samar
Leyte and Southern Leyte

Waves up to 3 meters above normal tide levels were predicted to affect coastal regions within 300 kilometers of the epicenter.
Residents were urged to evacuate immediately to higher ground and avoid going near the shore until the all-clear signal is given.

Local Situation in Southern Leyte

In Southern Leyte, tremors were strongly felt in towns such as Sogod, Maasin, and Bontoc.

At the Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) Main Campus and Sogod District Hospital, students, faculty, staff, and patients were seen moving outdoors to open spaces for safety.

These images show the community’s swift and calm response to emergency protocols during the quake.

Photos captured by: S. Aupe, N.G. Enaje, C. Nocalan, R. Paat, A. Gonzales, & R. Vasquez (The Campus Headliner Creatives)

Safety Reminders During Earthquakes

To stay safe during seismic events, PHIVOLCS reminds everyone to:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On – Take cover under sturdy furniture.
Stay Away from Windows and Heavy Objects.
Move to Open Areas once the shaking stops.
Avoid Coastal Areas if tsunami warnings are issued.
Prepare for Aftershocks.
Stay Tuned to verified updates from PHIVOLCS, NDRRMC, and local authorities.