After the 7.4-magnitude quake that claimed lives, another earthquake strikes mercilessly

A second powerful earthquake struck the southern Philippines today, less than 12 hours after a 7.4-magnitude tremor that killed at least six people and caused panic in several coastal areas.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the second earthquake measured 6.9 in magnitude, with its epicenter again near the city of Manay in Davao Oriental province.

Authorities stated that this was not an aftershock of the previous quake, but a new and independent earthquake. “This is a different earthquake. It is not an aftershock,” said PHIVOLCS director Teresito Bacolcol.

Immediately after the tremor, PHIVOLCS issued a tsunami warning, urging residents in the coastal areas of Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and Surigao del Norte to evacuate immediately to higher ground.

Authorities reported that the first tsunami waves could arrive by 9:12 PM local time. Emergency units have been placed on high alert, and monitoring of the situation on the ground continues.

The first earthquake caused significant material damage, and search-and-rescue teams are still working to assist affected residents and inspect damaged buildings.

“KORÇA BOOM”