A tectonic magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the waters off Sarangani, Davao Occidental, at 12:14 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Initially recorded at a magnitude of 7.0, the agency downgraded the tremor in its Earthquake Information No. 2 following further evaluation. The epicenter was traced 37 kilometers southwest of Balut Island at a shallow depth of 13 kilometers.
The quake triggered varying levels of ground shaking across Mindanao. Intensity V (strong) rocked Glan, Sarangani. General Santos City, along with Kiamba, Malungon, and Alabel in Sarangani, and Tupi and Polomolok in South Cotabato, experienced Intensity IV (moderately strong). Intensity III (weak) was felt in Maasim, Maitum, Malapatan, Lake Sebu, and Tampakan.
Meanwhile, residents in Koronadal City, Banga, and Surallah reported Intensity II, which is categorized as “slightly felt” shaking. Instrumental seismic monitors also confirmed Intensity V in Sarangani, Davao Occidental, and General Santos City.
PHIVOLCS stated that while no significant damage is expected, the public should remain alert for potential aftershocks.