17-11-2023 (MANILA) Davao Occidental in the southern Philippines experienced a powerful offshore earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.2 on Friday afternoon, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. The seismic event occurred at 4:14 p.m. local time (GMT 0814), with its epicenter located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Sarangani town, at a depth of 10 kilometers.
The institute warned of potential aftershocks and anticipated damage resulting from the tectonic quake. Thankfully, there is no immediate threat of a tsunami.
Strong tremors were felt in nearby areas on Mindanao island, including General Santos City and adjacent provinces. Local officials reported that the quake caused items to fall off shelves, prompting people to evacuate buildings, schools, and homes in a state of panic. While there are no immediate reports of casualties or damage, local authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
The Philippines, situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” frequently experiences seismic activities due to its geographic location. The incident underscores the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes, necessitating ongoing preparedness measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of residents.
