President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday ordered a full government mobilization after a powerful magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental, prompting tsunami warnings across parts of Mindanao and the Visayas.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued a tsunami alert for coastal provinces including Davao Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Southern Leyte and Eastern Samar, advising residents to move to higher ground and avoid shorelines.
“We are now assessing the situation on the ground and ensuring that everyone is safe,” President Marcos said in a statement.
He directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defense, the Armed Forces, the Philippine Coast Guard, and other agencies to initiate precautionary evacuations, activate emergency communication lines, and coordinate closely with local governments.
Search, rescue and relief teams are being readied for deployment “as soon as it is safe to do so,” according to Mr. Marcos.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development has begun prepositioning food packs and non-food supplies, while the Department of Health is preparing medical assistance for potential casualties.
He also called on residents in threatened areas to remain vigilant.
“To our kababayans in the affected regions, please stay alert and calm. Move to higher ground and stay away from the shore until authorities declare it safe,” he said.
“‘Follow all instructions from your local disaster councils and barangay officials. Your safety is our top priority,” the president added.
As aftershocks and sea disturbances remain possible, authorities warned communities against returning to low-lying areas prematurely. Emergency operations centers have been activated nationwide, with updates expected throughout the day.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that help reaches everyone who needs it,” Mr. Marcos said.
No immediate reports of casualties or major damage were available as assessments continued. Further bulletins from PHIVOLCS and local disaster councils are expected.
