President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced that the government is closely assessing the situation in areas affected by the magnitude 7.5 earthquake that struck Manay, Davao Oriental, on Friday, October 10.
“A strong earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Oriental this morning at 9:43 a.m. with a magnitude of 7.6. PHIVOLCS has issued a tsunami warning for several coastal provinces in Mindanao and the Visayas, including Davao Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Southern Leyte, and Eastern Samar,” said the President.
“We are now assessing the situation on the ground and ensuring that everyone is safe. I have directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defense, the Armed Forces, the Philippine Coast Guard, and all concerned agencies to immediately carry out evacuations in coastal areas, activate emergency communication lines, and coordinate closely with local governments,” he added.
The President also confirmed that search, rescue, and relief operations are being prepared for deployment to assist affected communities.
“Search, rescue, and relief operations are already being prepared and will be deployed as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of Social Welfare and Development is pre-positioning food and non-food items, while the Department of Health is ready to provide emergency medical assistance,” he said.
Marcos also urged the public to remain calm and follow the guidance of authorities.
“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. Follow all instructions from your local disaster councils and barangay officials. Your safety is our top priority,” he reminded.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that help reaches everyone who needs it. Let us continue to look out for one another and pray for the safety of all our countrymen,” the President added.
PHIVOLCS initially recorded the tremor at magnitude 7.6, later downgrading it to magnitude 7.5 and then to 7.4.