Magnitude 6.5 quake rattles parts of Mindanao

A strong earthquake rocked parts of Mindanao again on Thursday, October 31.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), a magnitude 6.5 quake struck Tulunan, Cotabato at 9:15 a.m.

The tremor was tectonic in origin at a depth of two kilometers.

Intensity VII or “destructive” shaking was felt in Tulunan Cotabato; Kidapawan City; and Bansalan, Davao del Sur.

Intensity VI or “very strong” shaking was recorded in Matanao, Davao del Sur.

Phivolcs also reported that the quake was felt under the following instrumental intensities:

Intensity VII – Kidapawan City

Intensity V – Malungon, Sarangani

Intensity IV – Kiamba and Alabel, Sarangani; Tupi, South Cotabato; Koronadal City; General Santos City

Intensity III – Gingoog City; Cagayan De Oro City

Phivolcs said damage and aftershocks are expected after the earthquake.

The 6.5 magnitude quake that hit Tulunan town happened just two days after a 6.6 magnitude earthquake jolted the same area.

In its latest situation report, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said the death toll in the October 29 earthquake has climbed to eight.

It added that at least 395 individuals were injured, while two persons were reported missing.

 

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Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the government was “on top of the situation,” with President Rodrigo Duterte ordering all agencies and responsible local government units (LGUs) to give “necessary assistance and immediate relief” to the victims of the earthquake.

“The President considers all situations arising from natural disasters that have caused widespread destruction to lives and property a top concern,” the Palace official said.

Panelo also assured the safety of the Chief Executive who was in his home in Davao City when the quake struck.

He added that Duterte might also visit “worst hit-areas” but did not further elaborate.