A powerful 6.7 magnitude earthquake rocked the southern Philippines on Friday, claiming the lives of a married couple and sending shockwaves that caused structural damage, panic, and evacuations across the region.
The seismic event, with its epicentre off Sarangani province on the main southern island of Mindanao, struck at 4.14 pm (0814 GMT), according to the US Geological Service. Despite the significant magnitude, no tsunami threat was issued.
Tragically, a man and his wife met a fatal end as a concrete wall collapsed on them outside a wood factory near General Santos City, where they were employed. “The wall fell on them during the quake,” shared Corporal Christopher Larano, underscoring the quake’s deadly impact.
The tremor’s intensity reverberated across the mountainous island, evoking a profound sense of fear and urgency among residents. Keeshia Leyran, 27, described it as the strongest earthquake she had ever encountered, recounting scenes of panic and chaos in Davao City, about 200 kilometres from the epicentre, where she was attending a conference.
Witnesses reported harrowing incidents of structural damage. A collapsed ceiling inside a General Santos shopping mall and another mall’s terrified shoppers hiding under tables while the building shook were documented in videos and photos, showcasing the quake’s alarming impact on infrastructure and human lives.
Amid the chaos, about 30 students in a nearby high school sought medical attention due to breathing difficulties induced by panic following the earthquake. Although some schools reported structural cracks, no substantial damage was officially confirmed by local authorities.
Seismic activities are common in the Philippines due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” known for its intense seismic and volcanic activity. While daily minor tremors are frequent, powerful earthquakes like this one come unexpectedly, leaving communities vulnerable.
As the affected areas grapple with the aftermath, restoring normalcy remains a priority. Efforts to assess damages, address safety concerns, and provide necessary support are underway, emphasizing the resilience of communities amidst the unpredictability of nature’s fury.
Sources By Agencies
