Philippines rocked by damaging 7.6-magnitude earthquake

"The southern Philippines was rocked by a powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake that struck in the region of Mindanao on Friday, initially triggering a tsunami warning that was later lifted. The Philippine seismology agency issued a tsunami warning, saying hazardous tsunami waves were possible for coasts located within 300km (186 miles) of the earthquake's epicentre. Hours later the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said the tsunami threat had passed."

"The Philippine seismology office said damage and aftershocks were expected as footage shared on social media of the quake hitting showed people in the Philippines crouching on the ground, bracing themselves on all fours to keep their balance as the ground shook violently beneath them. Motorcycles were knocked over by the force of the tremor. People in Tagum city were also heard praying in videos posted on social media, saying Save us, Lord, as debris from a mall fell around them."

"Dozens of patients at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) were also shown fleeing the hospital building. The governor of the southern Philippine province of Davao Oriental said people panicked when the earthquake struck. Some buildings were reported to have been damaged, Edwin Jubahib told broadcaster DZMM. It was very strong. Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said authorities were assessing the situation on the ground, and search and rescue efforts were being prepared."

A 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Manay in Mindanao at a depth of 10km, triggering an initial tsunami warning for coasts within 300km. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later declared the tsunami threat over. Footage showed people crouching, bracing on all fours, motorcycles toppled, and debris falling in malls as tremors continued and aftershocks and damage were expected. Dozens of hospital patients fled the Southern Philippines Medical Center. Local officials reported panic and building damage. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said authorities were assessing the situation and preparing search and rescue and relief efforts.

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