Philippine Earthquake Kills at Least 61, Raises Seabed by 2 Meters, Officials Say

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Friday, killing at least 61 people and raising the seabed by up to 2 meters, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The quake, which occurred in the Sulawesi Sea, triggered tsunami warnings that were later lifted as no significant waves were recorded.

What Caused the Earthquake?

The earthquake, which occurred at 5:40 a.m. local time, was caused by tectonic activity along the Philippine Fault System, a seismically active region where the Philippine Sea Plate collides with the Eurasian Plate. PHIVOLCS reported the quake had a depth of 10 kilometers, making it a shallow and potentially more destructive event. “Shallow earthquakes are often more damaging because the energy is released closer to the surface,” said Dr. Renato Solidum, PHIVOLCS director.

What Is the Current Death Toll?

Initial reports from local authorities cited a death toll of 46, but subsequent updates from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) raised the figure to 61. The discrepancy reflects challenges in assessing damage across remote areas. “We are still verifying reports from affected provinces like Davao and Sarangani,” said NDRRMC spokesperson Joyce Tura. Over 200 people were injured, and more than 20,000 residents were displaced, according to the agency.

Did the Quake Trigger a Tsunami?

Following the earthquake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued a tsunami advisory for coastal areas of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. However, no significant tsunami waves were recorded, and the warning was canceled within hours. “The seabed rose by up to 2 meters in some areas, but the displacement was not enough to generate a destructive tsunami,” said PTWC scientist Amy Newman. Local authorities in Sulawesi, Indonesia, reported minor flooding but no casualties.

How Is the International Community Responding?

Malaysia has pledged emergency aid to the Philippines, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stating, “We stand in solidarity with our neighbors during this crisis.” The Malaysian government said it would send supplies including food, water, and medical kits. The Red Cross and other international organizations are also deploying teams to assess needs, though access to some rural areas remains difficult due to damaged infrastructure.

What Happens Next?

Rescue operations continue in affected regions, with the Philippine military and local volunteers conducting search-and-rescue missions. Experts warn that aftershocks could pose additional risks. “The area is prone to seismic activity, and we must remain vigilant,” said Dr. Solidum. Meanwhile, the government is accelerating efforts to repair damaged buildings and provide temporary housing for displaced families. The death toll is expected to rise as more reports come in from the hardest-hit provinces.