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7.4 magnitude quake

NMP Davao remains structurally sound

by Nova Mae Francas October 20, 2025

written by Nova Mae Francas

THE NATIONAL Museum of the Philippines-Davao assured the public that the iconic durian building remains structurally sound following the recent 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the Davao Region on Oct. 10.

In a statement Sunday, NMP-Davao announced that the building underwent a full assessment by the Office of the City Building Official (OCBO).

While the strong tremor caused visible cracks on several wall surfaces due to stress absorption, OCBO confirmed that the structural integrity of the building remains secure.

“Current efforts are focused on repairing architectural and auxiliary components to ensure the continued safety and functionality of the facility,” it said.

NMP reported that the collections remained safe and intact.

However, a few pieces have to undergo minor conservation measures as part of their proactive care and preservation protocols.

“Please be assured that the safety of our visitors and the protection of our collections are our utmost priorities,” it said.

NMP is temporarily closed as of Oct. 10, 2025, until further notice, and assured it will reopen for the visiting public once necessary minor repairs are completed.

October 20, 2025 0 comments

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Davao Oriental calls for donations for construction materials

by Nova Mae Francas October 15, 2025

written by Nova Mae Francas

THE PROVINCIAL Government of Davao Oriental called for donations, especially construction materials, to rebuild homes of affected residents.

The recent Magnitude 7.6, and Magnitude 6.9 tremors in Davao Oriental have left hundreds of families without shelter, the provincial government said Wednesday.

As of 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 14, 2025, a total of 176,906 families have been affected across the Province of Davao Oriental, according to the summary released by the provincial government. The data also showed that 11,381 houses sustained damage, with 752 totally destroyed and 10,629 partially damaged.

The City of Mati recorded the highest number of affected families at 28,048, followed by Baganga with 21,686 families, and Governor Generoso with 20,123 families. Cateel and Lupon also reported significant impacts, with 18,087 and 18,682 affected families, respectively.

In terms of housing damage, Caraga reported the most number of damaged houses, with 214 totally and 2,855 partially damaged houses. Manay, which was the epicenter, followed closely with 129 totally and 3,113 partially damaged houses, while Baganga recorded 217 totally and 805 partially damaged.

Other municipalities such as Cateel and Tarragona also suffered housing damage, with 1,401 and 1,368 partially damaged houses, respectively.

The municipality of Boston had 4,662 affected families and 96 partially damaged houses, while San Isidro reported 11,286 affected families, with only one house totally and 159 partially damaged.

Banaybanay recorded 15,139 affected families, with 14 totally and 47 partially damaged houses, and Governor Generoso reported 20,123 affected families with 39 partially damaged houses.

While they recognized the support of partners, organizations, and individuals who have already sent donations to support the recovery efforts in Davao Oriental, it emphasized the need for construction materials.

“However, as recovery continues, our fellow Oryental Dabawenyos have expressed heartfelt pleas for construction materials,” it said.

It added that materials are deeply needed to restore the homes and provide families with a safe, and secure place essential for their post-quake recovery and healing.

Photo from Provincial Government of Davao Oriental

October 15, 2025 0 comments

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Davao Oriental province declares state of calamity

by Nova Mae Francas October 14, 2025

written by Nova Mae Francas

THE ENTIRE area of Davao Oriental is now under a state of calamity, the provincial government announced Monday.

The provincial government passed the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 18-152-10-2025 following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).

PDRRMC Resolution No. 6, series of 2025, entitled: “A resolution recommending the Declaration of a State of Calamity in the Province of Davao Oriental in response to the devastating effects of magnitude 7.6 and 6.8 earthquakes in Manay, Davao Oriental, and endorsing the same to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for their appropriate action.

This is due to the devastating effects of Magnitude 7.6 and 6.8 earthquakes in Manay, Davao Oriental.

The resolution was passed during the special session on October 13, at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall in the City of Mati.

Provincial Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang directed all agencies to mobilize immediate relief operations and accelerate rehabilitation efforts in areas heavily affected by the recent earthquake.

The declaration enables the provincial government to utilize emergency funds and implement interventions to support affected communities.

The death toll from the consecutive earthquakes that struck Davao Region has risen to eight, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said on Sunday morning.

Photo courtesy of the Davao Oriental provincial government

October 14, 2025 0 comments

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PBBM visits Davao quake-affected areas

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 14, 2025

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally visited the areas affected by the recent 7.4-magnitude earthquake in the Davao Region on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025.

Upon arrival in Manay, Davao Oriental, at around 11:30 a.m., the Commander-in-Chief was received by Major General Allan Hambala, Commander of the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division.

During his visit, the President inspected the Manay Provincial District Hospital and Manay National High School, both of which sustained significant structural damage.

He also proceeded to Tarragona, where he assessed the condition of the designated evacuation center that was likewise damaged during the incident.

The President then visited the Tent City established within the Tarragona Municipal Grounds, serving as a temporary evacuation site for displaced residents, including the child-friendly space tent for kids dealing with trauma.

In his message during the dialogue with the affected residents, President Marcos assured the victims that the government remains steadfast in providing all possible assistance to help them recover.

“Lagi kong sinasabi sa mga nagiging biktima pag may sakuna na kagaya into ay huwag kayong magdadalawang isip kong anong pangangailangan at sabihin ninyo sa amin, kung kaya naming dalhin, kung kaya naming ibigay, gagawin namin, at hindi ito pang-minsanan lamang. Hindi kami aalis dito hanggat lahat nang mga natamaan ay nakabalik na sa normal,” the President emphasized.

The national government continues to coordinate with the AFP, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, and Department of Education, along with local government units, to deliver timely humanitarian assistance and ensure the swift recovery of quake-affected communities across the Davao Region.

Photo courtesy of 10ID

October 14, 2025 0 comments

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Face-to-face classes suspended in Davao Oriental

by Nova Mae Francas October 12, 2025

written by Nova Mae Francas

THE DAVAO Oriental Schools Division Superintendent suspended all face-to-face classes in all public institutions until further notice.

“In line with the directive of Provincial Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, which is to ensure the safety and welfare of learners, teachers, and personnel after the magnitude 7.6 earthquake that struck the Province of Davao Oriental with its epicenter in Manay on October 10, 2025,” the memorandum reads.

“Face-to-face classes in all public schools in the Division of Davao Oriental are hereby suspended until further notice,” it added.

Municipal engineers and building officials continue to assess the infrastructure of schools and government institutions to determine their structural integrity.

In line with this, all schools will implement blended learning or other appropriate learning delivery modalities to ensure continuity of learning.

Meanwhile, all teaching and non-teaching personnel are directed to observe a work-from-home arrangement during this period.

School heads, on the other hand, must maintain a skeleton force to attend to urgent and essential school operations, particularly those related to coordination with the assessment/safety inspection team, and submission of reports.

Face-to-face classes and regular on-site work will resume only upon issuance of clearance from the Municipal Engineering Office certifying that the school premises are structurally safe for re-occupancy.

Photo from the Davao Oriental Provincial Government

October 12, 2025 0 comments

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VP Sara reminds of ‘duck, cover, hold’ and urgent need for a go bag

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 12, 2025

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

AFTER EXPERIENCING the powerful earthquake and aftershocks, Vice President Sara Duterte stressed the importance of preparedness, including having a “go bag: ready by the door.

“Presence of mind is crucial, and you shouldn’t panic,” she said in an interview with reporters in Mati City on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, reminding the public about ‘duck, cover, and hold.’

“You should have a go bag when you leave the door of your house, so when you run, you bring your go bag with you,” Duterte advised.

Duterte visited Mati, Davao Oriental, to extend her condolences and offer assistance to the bereaved families following yesterday’s earthquake. The vice president personally helped arrange the transport of one of the casualties to Davao City for the wake.

“We visited those who died from the earthquake. We helped them transport the remains of their loved ones,” she shared.

Screenshot from OVP video

October 12, 2025 0 comments

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Quake claims life

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 10, 2025

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

Concrete wall collapses, killing elderly man in Davao City tremor

AN 80-YEAR-OLD man was crushed by a collapsing concrete wall while he was sitting on a monobloc chair along the sidewalk in Barangay Tomas Monteverde, Agdao District, following the Magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck offshore of Manay, Davao Oriental at 9:43 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 10.

Meanwhile, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) identified him as alias Sotero, a resident of Soliman, Tomas Monteverde, who was declared dead on arrival at the Southern Philippines Medical Center.

According to the report from Police Station 1 (Sta. Ana), the concrete wall was a remnant of a previously demolished property. Law enforcers responded to a 911 call to find the lifeless Sotero on the scene.

Dela Cruz was rushed to SPMC but was pronounced dead on arrival at approximately 10:28 a.m. His remains would be transferred to Rivera Funeral Homes.

Meanwhile, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has already reached out to the victim’s family to provide the necessary assistance.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO)-Central 911 swiftly responded to a total of 347 individuals who experienced fainting or sustained minor injuries. All patients have received proper medical attention and are now in stable condition.

Following the issuance of a Red Alert Status by the Office of Civil Defense for the Davao Region, the Davao City DRRMO has likewise raised its alert status to Red Alert.

All emergency assets were currently prepositioned in preparation for possible aftershocks. Fortunately, there was no active tsunami warning for Davao City.

The City Engineer’s Office, in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), immediately conducted structural assessments of Bankerohan Bridge, Bolton Bridge, Davao River Bridge, and San Rafael Bridge.

No major structural damage was found, and all four bridges were declared safe for vehicular traffic.

“We urge the public to remain calm and vigilant. Please continue to monitor official channels for accurate and timely updates regarding the situation and potential aftershocks,” the CDRRMO said.

Davao Oriental as the epicenter

According to the report, Davao Oriental Governor Nelson Dayanghirang confirmed two fatalities in the province, including one victim in Mati City who was hit by a falling hollow block.

A 30-centimeter tsunami wave was recorded at the Tandag, Surigao del Sur monitoring station at 10:20 a.m. However, PHIVOLCS later canceled the tsunami warning, stating that the effects had largely passed.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao officially lifted the suspension of all sea travel within its area of responsibility (AOR) on Friday afternoon.

Davao City response

The city government suspended work for all non-essential offices and classes at all levels until further notice.

Private offices, including the University of Mindanao (UM), were encouraged to follow suit. Emergency response teams (CDRRMO, CHO, CEO, OCBO) were immediately deployed to conduct rapid assessments.

Widespread damage and evacuations

Mass evacuations took place across the region, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas of Davao Oriental, where residents moved to safe zones like the Provincial Capitol grounds.

Initial reports include a residential building collapse in Lupon, Davao Oriental, damage to the Manay District Hospital, and shattered glass windows at the City Hall in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. Structural damage was also reported in Misamis Oriental and Butuan City.

Hospital and school impact

Damage to the Manay District Hospital necessitated the immediate evacuation of patients to temporary shelters set up outside the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center in Mati. Evacuation scenes were widespread, with workers from commercial buildings and residents of high-rises like Avida Towers gathering on the streets.

Other incidents

A chemical spill was reported at San Pedro College in Davao City, requiring a response from the BFP Special Rescue Force (SRF). Meanwhile, in Agusan del Sur, several students fainted after the strong shaking.

October 10, 2025 0 comments

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EastMinCom concludes high-stakes Maritime Interdiction Drill

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 10, 2025

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

DESPITE the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Manay, Davao Oriental, and was strongly felt in Davao City, the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) successfully concluded the high-stakes Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise (MIAEX) 2025-02 in Eastern Mindanao waters on Friday, Oct. 10.

The drill was designed to sharpen the collective response of 16 agencies against both internal and external threats.

In the morning, the writer of this story, onboard a Philippine Air Force Black Hawk helicopter operating under EastMinCom, conducted an aerial security patrol over Davao waters, marking the start of the Joint Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise 2025-02.

During the first sortie, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, the Black Hawk conducted an aerial security patrol over the waters of Davao, the Island Garden City of Samal, and Talicud Island.

In the second sortie, the Black Hawk helicopter performed a close air support role for the ground troops conducting a maritime operation.

It also provided surveillance during a scenario involving putting out a fire on a boat, where the Philippine Coast Guard’s water cannon and various Navy assets provided an additional layer of security.

The exercise, hosted by the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) and involving 16 distinct units, was designed with the core objective of enhancing synergy and testing interoperability across a wide spectrum of maritime security operations.

The scenarios simulated intense, real-world challenges, culminating in a series of coordinated, rapid-fire drills in the late morning.

Key scenarios and high-risk drills

The maneuvers, which began with a 5:30 a.m. departure, focused heavily on combat-readiness and law enforcement at sea:

Fire at-Sea Response: The exercise kicked off its main phase at 9 a.m. with a simulated fire-at-sea, demanding a rapid, coordinated response involving vessels and firefighting teams from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Maritime Interdiction and HRVBSS: This was immediately followed by a crucial Maritime Interdiction drill, leading into a High-Risk Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (HRVBSS) operation.

This specialized task was led by the elite Naval Special Operations Unit 7 (NAVSOU7), demonstrating the deployment of Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) teams to neutralize threats aboard a vessel.

Coastal Defense: Running concurrently was a Coastal Defense/Sector Defense drill, with elements like the Ground Unit of Task Force (TF) Davao acting as a quick reaction force to secure coastal areas.

Coalition of 16 units

The scope of the exercise showcased a whole-of-government approach to maritime security, integrating military, police, enforcement, and civilian response capabilities.

Major naval and air assets deployed:

Philippine Navy (NFEM & TOW-EM): Key vessels included the patrol corvette BRP Artemis Ricarte (PS37) and the tank landing ship BRP Teotimo (LC298), alongside Multi-Purpose Attack Craft (MPACs) and the coastal patrol craft BRP Alberto Navarette (PC 394). Air support featured Fixed Wing aircraft (N762, C-208B) and a helicopter (BLADE HAWA).

Special Operations: The NAVSOU7 contributed its highly specialized SEAL Team and an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team, ready to address sophisticated threats like improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Law Enforcement and Support: Crucial participation came from the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine National Police (PNP) with their Maritime Group, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).

Other key support units included AFP Reservists for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR), a combined medical team, and the Eastern Mindanao Command, which provided a C2 (Command and Control) element to manage the large-scale integrated operation.

The successful completion of the exercise underscores the Eastern Mindanao Command and other security forces’ commitment to continuously strengthening their naval and inter-agency capabilities to safeguard their vast maritime domain in Eastern Mindanao.

Meanwhile, EastMinCom has placed all its disaster response units on alert following the powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck off the coast of Manay, Davao Oriental, at around 9:43 a.m. Friday.

EastMinCom spokesperson Lt Col Salvacion Evangelista said that the PAF Black Hawk that was used during the exercise earlier took off on Friday afternoon to Davao Oriental, on board the director of the Office of Civil Defense XI from TowEM headquarters in Sasa for the conduct

of Rapid damage and needs assessment.

Photos courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron

October 10, 2025 0 comments