A POWERFUL 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck waters off Balut Island in Davao Occidental late on Tuesday night, with Philippine authorities reporting no immediate damage or casualties while warning that aftershocks are expected.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said the tectonic earthquake occurred at 11.49pm local time at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres.
The epicentre was located approximately 104 kilometres southwest of Balut Island in Sarangani, Davao Occidental.
The strongest shaking, classified as Instrumental Intensity V or "strong", was recorded in Kiamba, Sarangani.
Moderately strong shaking, or Instrumental Intensity IV, was experienced in Malapatan, Maasim and Maitum in Sarangani, as well as General Santos City, Tupi and Tboli in South Cotabato.
Weaker tremors were felt across several parts of Mindanao, including Santa Maria in Davao Occidental, Malungon in Sarangani, Santo Niño in South Cotabato, Roxas City in Capiz, Magsaysay in Davao del Sur, and several towns in Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato provinces.
PHIVOLCS said there was no immediate indication of significant damage resulting from the earthquake and did not issue a tsunami warning.
However, the agency cautioned that aftershocks may follow the offshore quake and advised residents in affected areas to remain alert.
The Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a highly active seismic belt where the interaction of major tectonic plates frequently triggers earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. - July 15, 2026
