A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental in the southern Philippines on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
The tectonic earthquake occurred at 11:02 AM local time, with its epicenter located approximately 58 kilometers east of Manay town in Davao Oriental province. The quake struck at a depth of 42 kilometers beneath the Philippine Sea.
Phivolcs initially reported the earthquake as magnitude 6.7 in its first bulletin issued at 11:14 AM, but later revised the figure downward to 6.4 in an updated advisory. The agency confirmed that damage and aftershocks are expected in the affected areas.
Strong tremors were felt across Davao Oriental and surrounding regions, prompting residents to evacuate buildings as a precautionary measure. Despite the significant magnitude, Phivolcs confirmed there is no tsunami threat from this seismic event.
Police and disaster officials near the quake's epicenter reported no immediate casualties or significant structural damage, though assessments are ongoing. Local authorities have activated emergency response protocols and are monitoring the situation closely.
The Philippines experiences frequent and often severe earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a vast belt marked by constant movement of tectonic plates resulting in intense seismic and volcanic activity. The country sits at the convergence of several major tectonic plates, making it one of the most earthquake-prone nations in the world.
A smaller 4.4 magnitude aftershock was also recorded in Davao Oriental later on the same day, as seismologists continue to monitor for additional seismic activity in the region.
Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and follow updates from local disaster risk reduction and management offices. Those in coastal areas should stay informed about any changes to tsunami advisories, even though none has been issued for this event.
Comments